Artificial nucleic acid molecules encoding a norovirus antigen and uses thereof

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to an artificial nucleic acid and to polypeptides suitable for use in treatment or prophylaxis of an infection with Norovirus or a disorder related to such an infection. In particular, the present invention concerns a Norovirus vaccine. The present invention is directed to an artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines comprising the artificial nucleic acid or the polypeptides. The invention further concerns a method of treating or preventing a disorder or a disease, first and second medical uses of the artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines. Further, the invention is directed to a kit, particularly to a kit of parts, comprising the artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines.

This application is a national phase application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT/EP2017/060673, filed May 4, 2017, which claims benefit of International Application No. PCT/EP2016/060115, filed May 4, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

INTRODUCTION

The present invention is directed to an artificial nucleic acid and to polypeptides suitable for use in treatment or prophylaxis of an infection with Norovirus or a disorder related to such an infection. In particular, the present invention concerns a Norovirus vaccine. The present invention is directed to an artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines comprising the artificial nucleic acid or the polypeptides. The invention further concerns a method of treating or preventing a disorder or a disease, first and second medical uses of the artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines. Further, the invention is directed to a kit, particularly to a kit of parts, comprising the artificial nucleic acid, polypeptides, compositions and vaccines.

Noroviruses (also known as Norwalk-like viruses or Norwalk viruses) are positive sense, single-stranded RNA Calciviruses (Sarvestani, Soroush T., et al. “Norovirus Infection: Replication, Manipulation of Host, and Interaction with the Host Immune Response.” Journal of Interferon 6 Cytokine Research 36.4 (2016):215-225), containing a non-segmented RNA genome. The virus genome is organized in three open reading frames, of which the 5′ proximal ORF encodes a large polyprotein that is cleaved into non-structural proteins; the minor capsid protein VP2 is encoded by ORF3 and the major capsid protein VP1 is encoded by ORF2 (Karst et al., Cell Host Microbe 11; 15(6):668-80, 2014; Robilotti E, Deresinski S, Pinsky B A. 2015. Norovirus. Clin Microbiol Rev 28:134-164).

Noroviruses are classified into five genogroups (GI-GV), and are further subdivided into genotypes based on the capsid sequence (Zheng, Du-Ping, et al. “Norovirus classification and proposed strain nomenclature.” Virology 346.2 (2001):312-323; Kroneman, A., et al. “An automated genotyping tool for enteroviruses and noroviruses.” Journal of Clinical Virology 51.2 (2011):121-125). Mostly viruses of genogroups I, II are known to infect humans (Ramani, Sasirekha, Robert L. Atmar, and Mary K. Estes. “Epidemiology of human noroviruses and updates on vaccine development.”, Current opinion in gastroenterology 30.1 (2014):25). Norwalk viruses (NV) genotype GI.1 was the first isolated Norovirus, however genotype GII.4 Noroviruses are currently the most frequently detected in humans (Glass, Roger I., Umesh D. Parashar, and Mary K. Estes. “Norovirus gastroenteritis.” New England Journal of Medicine 361.18 (2009):1776-1785).

Infections with Noroviruses are generally self-limiting in healthy adults, displaying typical symptoms including non-bloody diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and abdominal cramps. However, in individuals with weakened immune system, including young children and elderly, infection can be severe and even fatal (Glass, Roger I., Umesh D. Parashar, and Mary K. Estes. “Norovirus gastroenteritis.” New England Journal of Medicine 361.18 (2009):1776-1785). Nongastrointestinal-related illness, including neurodevelopmental disorders have also been reported after Norovirus infection. (Sarvestani, Soroush T., et al. “Norovirus Infection: Replication, Manipulation of Host, and Interaction with the Host Immune Response.” Journal of Interferon C Cytokine Research 36.4 (2016):215-225).

Due to the low infectious dose, resistance to many common sterilization procedures, and ease of transmission, epidemic outbreaks are common and difficult to control (Glass, Roger I., Umesh D. Parashar, and Mary K. Estes. “Norovirus gastroenteritis.” New England Journal of Medicine 361.18 (200B):1776-1785; Hutson et al., 2004). NoV has been shown to be the cause of the majority of nonbacterial gastroenteritis epidemics, resulting in a huge economic burden. In the US, the cost of NoV-associated hospitalizations has been estimated at approximately $500 million, while foodborne NoV cost due to healthcare and lost productivity has been estimated at $2 billion (Batz, Michael B., Sandra Hoffmann, and J. Glenn Morris Jr. “Ranking the disease burden of 14 pathogens in food sources in the United States using attribution data from outbreak investigations and expert elicitation.” Journal of Food Protection 75.7 (2012):1278-1291). The rapid evolution of Norovirus genotypes through antigenic drift and changing glycan specificities still provide challenges in the development of potent vaccines (Ramani, Sasirekha, Robert L. Atmar, and Mary K. Estes. “Epidemiology of human noroviruses and updates on vaccine development.” Current opinion in gastroenterology 30.1 (2014):25).

At present, there is no specific treatment of Norovirus infections. Therapy is limited to curing the symptoms caused by the infection. In addition, there is currently no vaccine available against Norovirus infections. There is therefore a strong need for a vaccine against Norovirus infection.

The underlying object of the present invention is therefore to provide a Norovirus vaccine. It is a further preferred object of the invention to provide a Norovirus vaccine, which may be produced at an industrial scale. A further object of the present invention is the provision of a storage-stable Norovirus vaccine. Further object of the underlying invention is to provide mRNA sequences coding for antigenic peptides or proteins derived from a protein of a Norovirus or a fragment or variant thereof for the use as a vaccine for prophylaxis or treatment of Norovirus infections. Furthermore, it is the object of the present invention to provide an effective Norovirus vaccine which can be stored without cold chain and which enables rapid and scalable vaccine production.

The object underlying the present invention is solved by the claimed subject-matter. Particularly, the objects underlying the present invention are solved according to a first aspect by an inventive by providing an artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived from a Norovirus, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Definitions

For the sake of clarity and readability the following definitions are provided. Any technical feature mentioned for these definitions may be read on each and every embodiment of the invention. Additional definitions and explanations may be specifically provided in the context of these embodiments.

Adaptive immune response: The adaptive immune response is typically understood to be an antigen-specific response of the immune system. Antigen specificity allows for the generation of responses that are tailored to specific pathogens or pathogen-infected cells. The ability to mount these tailored responses is usually maintained in the body by “memory cells”. Should a pathogen infect the body more than once, these specific memory cells are used to quickly eliminate it. In this context, the first step of an adaptive immune response is the activation of naïve antigen-specific T cells or different immune cells able to induce an antigen-specific immune response by antigen-presenting cells. This occurs in the lymphoid tissues and organs through which naïve T cells are constantly passing. The three cell types that may serve as antigen-presenting cells are dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells. Each of these cells has a distinct function in eliciting immune responses. Dendritic cells may take up antigens by phagocytosis and macropinocytosis and may become stimulated by contact with e.g. a foreign antigen to migrate to the local lymphoid tissue, where they differentiate into mature dendritic cells. Macrophages ingest particulate antigens such as bacteria and are induced by infectious agents or other appropriate stimuli to express MHC molecules. The unique ability of B cells to bind and internalize soluble protein antigens via their receptors may also be important to induce T cells. MHC-molecules are, typically, responsible for presentation of an antigen to T-cells. Therein, presenting the antigen on MHC molecules leads to activation of T cells which induces their proliferation and differentiation into armed effector T cells. The most important function of effector T cells is the killing of infected cells by CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and the activation of macrophages by Th1 cells which together make up cell-mediated immunity, and the activation of B cells by both Th2 and Th1 cells to produce different classes of antibody, thus driving the humoral immune response. T cells recognize an antigen by their T cell receptors which do not recognize and bind the antigen directly, but instead recognize short peptide fragments e.g. of pathogen-derived protein antigens, e.g. so-called epitopes, which are bound to MHC molecules on the surfaces of other cells.

Adaptive immune system: The adaptive immune system is essentially dedicated to eliminate or prevent pathogenic growth. It typically regulates the adaptive immune response by providing the vertebrate immune system with the ability to recognize and remember specific pathogens (to generate immunity), and to mount stronger attacks each time the pathogen is encountered. The system is highly adaptable because of somatic hypermutation (a process of accelerated somatic mutations), and V(D)J recombination (an irreversible genetic recombination of antigen receptor gene segments). This mechanism allows a small number of genes to generate a vast number of different antigen receptors, which are then uniquely expressed on each individual lymphocyte. Because the gene rearrangement leads to an irreversible change in the DNA of each cell, all of the progeny (offspring) of such a cell will then inherit genes encoding the same receptor specificity, including the Memory B cells and Memory T cells that are the keys to long-lived specific immunity.

Adjuvant/adjuvant component: An adjuvant or an adjuvant component in the broadest sense is typically a pharmacological and/or immunological agent that may modify, e.g. enhance, the effect of other agents, such as a drug or vaccine. It is to be interpreted in a broad sense and refers to a broad spectrum of substances. Typically, these substances are able to increase the immunogenicity of antigens. For example, adjuvants may be recognized by the innate immune systems and, e.g., may elicit an innate immune response. “Adjuvants” typically do not elicit an adaptive immune response. Insofar, “adjuvants” do not qualify as antigens. Their mode of action is distinct from the effects triggered by antigens resulting in an adaptive immune response.

Antigen: In the context of the present invention “antigen” refers typically to a substance which may be recognized by the immune system, preferably by the adaptive immune system, and is capable of triggering an antigen-specific immune response, e.g. by formation of antibodies and/or antigen-specific T cells as part of an adaptive immune response. Typically, an antigen may be or may comprise a peptide or protein which may be presented by the MHC to T-cells. In the sense of the present invention an antigen may be the product of translation of a provided nucleic acid molecule, preferably an mRNA as defined herein. In this context, also fragments, variants and derivatives of peptides and proteins comprising at least one epitope are understood as antigens. In the context of the present invention, tumour antigens and pathogenic antigens as defined herein are particularly preferred.

Artificial nucleic acid molecule: An “artificial nucleic acid molecule” or “artificial nucleic acid” may typically be understood to be a nucleic acid molecule, e.g. a DNA or an RNA that does not occur naturally. In other words, an artificial nucleic acid molecule may be understood as a non-natural nucleic acid molecule. Such nucleic acid molecule may be non-natural due to its individual sequence (which does not occur naturally) and/or due to other modifications, e.g. structural modifications of nucleotides which do not occur naturally. An artificial nucleic acid molecule may be a DNA molecule, an RNA molecule or a hybrid-molecule comprising DNA and RNA portions. Typically, artificial nucleic acid molecules may be designed and/or generated by genetic engineering methods to correspond to a desired artificial sequence of nucleotides (heterologous sequence). In this context an artificial sequence is usually a sequence that may not occur naturally, i.e. it differs from the wild type sequence by at least one nucleotide. The term “wild type” may be understood as a sequence occurring in nature. Further, the term “artificial nucleic acid molecule” is not restricted to mean “one single molecule” but is, typically, understood to comprise an ensemble of identical molecules. Accordingly, it may relate to a plurality of identical molecules contained in an aliquot.

Bicistronic nucleic acid or RNA and multicistronic nucleic acid or RNA: A bicistronic or multicistronic nucleic acid or RNA is typically a nucleic acid or an RNA, preferably an mRNA, that typically may have two (bicistronic) or more (multicistronic) coding regions. A coding region in this context is a sequence of codons that is translatable into a peptide or protein.

Carrier/polymeric carrier: A carrier in the context of the invention may typically be a compound that facilitates transport and/or complexation of another compound (cargo). A polymeric carrier is typically a carrier that is formed of a polymer. A carrier may be associated to its cargo by covalent or non-covalent interaction. A carrier may transport nucleic acids, e.g. RNA or DNA, to the target cells. The carrier may—for some embodiments—be a cationic component.

Complexation and Formulation: According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one mRNA of the inventive composition may be complexed with lipids to form one or more liposomes, lipoplexes, or lipid nanoparticles. Therefore, in one embodiment, the inventive composition comprises liposomes, lipoplexes, and/or lipid nanoparticles comprising the at least one mRNA.

Lipid-based formulations have been increasingly recognized as one of the most promising delivery systems for RNA due to their biocompatibility and their ease of large-scale production. Cationic lipids have been widely studied as synthetic materials for delivery of RNA. After mixing together, nucleic acids are condensed by cationic lipids to form lipid/nucleic acid complexes known as lipoplexes. These lipid complexes are able to protect genetic material from the action of nucleases and deliver it into cells by interacting with the negatively charged cell membrane. Lipoplexes can be prepared by directly mixing positively charged lipids at physiological pH with negatively charged nucleic acids. Conventional liposomes consist of a lipid bilayer that can be composed of cationic, anionic, or neutral (phospho)lipids and cholesterol, which encloses an aqueous core. Both the lipid bilayer and the aqueous space can incorporate hydrophobic or hydrophilic compounds, respectively. Liposome characteristics and behaviour in vivo can be modified by addition of a hydrophilic polymer coating, e.g. polyethylene glycol (PEG), to the liposome surface to confer steric stabilization. Furthermore, liposomes can be used for specific targeting by attaching ligands (e.g., antibodies, peptides, and carbohydrates) to its surface or to the terminal end of the attached PEG chains (Front Pharmacol. 2015 Dec. 1:6:286). Liposomes are colloidal lipid-based and surfactant-based delivery systems composed of a phospholipid bilayer surrounding an aqueous compartment. They may present as spherical vesicles and can range in size from 20 nm to a few microns. Cationic lipid-based liposomes are able to complex with negatively charged nucleic acids via electrostatic interactions, resulting in complexes that offer biocompatibility, low toxicity, and the possibility of the large-scale production required for in vivo clinical applications. Liposomes can fuse with the plasma membrane for uptake: once inside the cell, the liposomes are processed via the endocytic pathway and the genetic material is then released from the endosome/carrier into the cytoplasm. Liposomes have long been perceived as drug delivery vehicles because of their superior biocompatibility, given that liposomes are basically analogs of biological membranes, and can be prepared from both natural and synthetic phospholipids (Int J Nanomedicine. 2014; 9:1833-1843).

Cationic liposomes have been traditionally the most commonly used non-viral delivery systems for oligonucleotides, including plasmid DNA, antisense oligos, and siRNA/small hairpin RNA-shRNA). Cationic lipids, such as DOTAP, (1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane) and DOTMA (N-[1-(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethyl-ammonium methyl sulfate) can form complexes or lipoplexes with negatively charged nucleic acids to form nanoparticles by electrostatic interaction, providing high in vitro transfection efficiency. Furthermore, neutral lipid-based nanoliposomes for RNA delivery as e.g. neutral 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DOPC)-based nanoliposomes were developed. (Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2014 February: 66:110-116).

Therefore, in one embodiment the at least one mRNA of the inventive composition is complexed with cationic lipids and/or neutral lipids and thereby forms liposomes, lipid nanoparticles, lipoplexes or neutral lipid-based nanoliposomes.

Cationic component or cationic compound: The term “cationic component” or “cationic compound” typically refers to a charged molecule, which is positively charged (cation) at a pH value typically from 1 to 9, preferably at a pH value of or below 9 (e.g. from 5 to 9), of or below 8 (e.g. from 5 to 8), of or below 7 (e.g. from 5 to 7), most preferably at a physiological pH, e.g. from 7.3 to 7.4. Accordingly, a cationic component may be any positively charged compound or polymer, preferably a cationic peptide or protein which is positively charged under physiological conditions, particularly under physiological conditions in vivo. Further accordingly, a cationic peptide, protein, polysaccharide, lipid or polymer according to the present invention is positively charged under physiological conditions, particularly under physiological salt conditions of the cell in vivo. A “cationic peptide or protein” may contain at least one positively charged amino acid, or more than one positively charged amino acid, e.g. selected from Arg, His, Lys or Orn. Accordingly, “polycationic” components or compounds are also within the scope exhibiting more than one positive charge under the conditions given.

5′-cap: A 5′-cap is an entity, typically a modified nucleotide entity, which generally “caps” the 5′-end of a mature mRNA. A 5′-cap may typically be formed by a modified nucleotide, particularly by a derivative of a guanine nucleotide. Preferably, the 5′-cap is linked to the 5′-terminus via a 5′-5′-triphosphate linkage. A 5′-cap may be methylated, e.g. m7GpppN, wherein N is the terminal 5′ nucleotide of the nucleic acid carrying the 5′-cap, typically the 5′-end of an RNA. Further examples of 5′cap structures include glyceryl, inverted deoxy abasic residue (moiety), 4′,5′ methylene nucleotide, 1-(beta-D-erythrofuranosyl) nucleotide, 4′-thio nucleotide, carbocyclic nucleotide, 1.5-anhydrohexitol nucleotide, L-nucleotides, alpha-nucleotide, modified base nucleotide, threo-pentofuranosyl nucleotide, acyclic 3′,4′-seco nucleotide, acyclic 3,4-dihydroxybutyl nucleotide, acyclic 3,5 dihydroxypentyl nucleotide. 3′-3′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-3′-inverted abasic moiety, 3′-2′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-2′-inverted abasic moiety, 1,4-butanediol phosphate, 3′-phosphoramidate, hexylphosphate, aminohexyl phosphate, 3′-phosphate, 3′phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, or bridging or non-bridging methylphosphonate moiety.

Cap analogue: A cap analogue refers to a non-polymerizable di-nucleotide that has cap functionality in that it facilitates translation or localization, and/or prevents degradation of a nucleic acid molecule, particularly of an RNA molecule, when incorporated at the 5′ end of the nucleic acid molecule. Non-polymerizable means that the cap analogue will be incorporated only at the 5′-terminus because it does not have a 5′ triphosphate and therefore cannot be extended in the 3′ direction by a template-dependent polymerase, particularly, by template-dependent RNA polymerase.

Cap analogues include, but are not limited to, a chemical structure selected from the group consisting of m7GpppG, m7GpppA, m7GpppC; unmethylated cap analogues (e.g., GpppG); dimethylated cap analogue (e.g., m2.7GpppG), trimethylated cap analogue (e.g., m2,2,7GpppG), dimethylated symmetrical cap analogues (e.g., m7Gpppm7G), or anti reverse cap analogues (e.g., ARCA: m7.2′OmeGpppG. m7.2′dGpppG, m7.3′OmeGpppG, m7.3′dGpppB and their tetraphosphate derivatives) (Stepinski et al., 2001. RNA 7(10):1486-95).

Further cap analogues have been described previously (U.S. Pat. No. 7,074,596, WO 2008/016473, WO 2008/157688, WO 2009/149253. WO 2011/015347, and WO 2013/059475). The synthesis of N7-(4-chlorophenoxyethyl) substituted dinucleotide cap analogues has been described recently (Kore et al. (2013) Bioorg. Med. Chem. 21(15):4571-4).

5′-cap-Structure: A 5′-cap is typicallyα a modified nucleotide (cap analogue), particularly a guanine nucleotide, added to the 5′ end of a nucleic acid molecule, particularly of an RNA molecule, e.g. an mRNA molecule. Preferably, the 5′-cap is added using a 5′-5′-triphosphate linkage (also named m7GpppN). Further examples of 5′-cap structures include glyceryl, inverted deoxy abasic residue (moiety), 4′,5′ methylene nucleotide. 1-(beta-D-erythrofuranosyl) nucleotide, 4′-thio nucleotide, carbocyclic nucleotide, 1,5-anhydrohexitol nucleotide, L-nucleotides, alpha-nucleotide, modified base nucleotide, threo-pentofuranosyl nucleotide, acyclic 3′,4′-seco nucleotide, acyclic 3,4-dihydroxybutyl nucleotide, acyclic 3.5 dihydroxypentyl nucleotide, 3′-3′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-3′-inverted abasic moiety, 3′-2′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-2′-inverted abasic moiety, 1,4-butanedial phosphate, 3′-phosphoramidate, hexylphosphate, aminohexyl phosphate, 3′-phosphate, 3′phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, or bridging or non-bridging methylphosphonate moiety. These modified 5′-cap structures may be used in the context of the present invention to modify the mRNA sequence of the inventive composition. Further modified 5′-cap structures which may be used in the context of the present invention are cap 1 (additional methylation of the ribose of the adjacent nucleotide of m77GpppN), cap2 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 2nd nucleotide downstream of the m7GpppN), cap3 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 3rd nucleotide downstream of the m7GpppN), cap4 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 4th nucleotide downstream of the m7GpppN), ARCA (anti-reverse cap analogue), modified ARCA (e.g. phosphothioate modified ARCA), inosine, N1-methyl-guanosine, 2′-fluoro-guanosine, 7-deaza-guanosine, 8-oxo-guanosine, 2-amino-guanosine, LNA-guanosine, and 2-azido-guanosine.

In the context of the present invention, a 5′ cap structure (cap0 or cap1) may also be formed in chemical RNA synthesis or RNA in vitro transcription (co-transcriptional capping) using cap analogues, or a cap structure may be formed in vitro using capping enzymes (e.g., commercially available capping kits). A cap structure (e.g., cap0 or cap1) may also be formed in vitro using immobilized capping enzymes, e.g. in a capping reactor as described in WO 2016/19322.

Chemical synthesis of nucleic acids: Chemical synthesis of relatively short fragments of oligonucleotides with defined chemical structure provides a rapid and inexpensive access to custom-made oligonucleotides of any desired sequence. Whereas enzymes synthesize DNA and RNA only in the 5′ to 3′ direction, chemical oligonucleotide synthesis does not have this limitation, although it is most often carried out in the opposite, i.e. the 3′ to 5′ direction. Currently, the process is implemented as solid-phase synthesis using the phosphoramidite method and phosphoramidite building blocks derived from protected nucleosides (A, C, G, and U), or chemically modified nucleosides.

To obtain the desired oligonucleotide, the building blocks are sequentially coupled to the growing oligonucleotide chain on a solid phase in the order required by the sequence of the product in a fully automated process. Upon the completion of the chain assembly, the product is released from the solid phase to the solution, deprotected, and collected. The occurrence of side reactions sets practical limits for the length of synthetic oligonucleotides (up to about 200 nucleotide residues), because the number of errors increases with the length of the oligonucleotide being synthesized. Products are often isolated by HPLC to obtain the desired oligonucleotides in high purity.

Chemically synthesized oligonucleotides find a variety of applications in molecular biology and medicine. They are most commonly used as antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA, primers for DNA sequencing and amplification, probes for detecting complementary DNA or RNA via molecular hybridization, tools for the targeted introduction of mutations and restriction sites, and for the synthesis of artificial genes. Moreover, long-chain DNA molecules and long-chain RNA molecules may be chemically synthetized and used in the context of the present invention.

Cellular immunity/cellular immune response: Cellular immunity relates typically to the activation of macrophages, natural killer cells (NK), antigen-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, and the release of various cytokines in response to an antigen. In more general terms, cellular immunity is not based on antibodies, but on the activation of cells of the immune system. Typically, a cellular immune response may be characterized e.g. by activating antigen-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes that are able to induce apoptosis in cells, e.g. specific immune cells like dendritic cells or other cells, displaying epitopes of foreign antigens on their surface. Such cells may be virus-infected or infected with intracellular bacteria, or cancer cells displaying tumor antigens. Further characteristics may be activation of macrophages and natural killer cells, enabling them to destroy pathogens and stimulation of cells to secrete a variety of cytokines that influence the function of other cells involved in adaptive immune responses and innate immune responses.

Cloning site: A cloning site is typically understood to be a segment of a nucleic acid molecule, which is suitable for insertion of a nucleic acid sequence, e.g., a nucleic acid sequence comprising a coding region. Insertion may be performed by any molecular biological method known to the one skilled in the art, e.g. by restriction and ligation. A cloning site typically comprises one or more restriction enzyme recognition sites (restriction sites). These one or more restrictions sites may be recognized by restriction enzymes which cleave the DNA at these sites. A cloning site which comprises more than one restriction site may also be termed a multiple cloning site (MCS) or a polylinker.

Coding region, coding sequence: A coding region, in the context of the invention, is typically a sequence of several nucleotide triplets, which may be translated into a peptide or protein. A coding region preferably contains a start codon, i.e. a combination of three subsequent nucleotides coding usually for the amino acid methionine (ATG), at its 5′-end and a subsequent region which usually exhibits a length which is a multiple of 3 nucleotides. A coding region is preferably terminated by a stop-codon (e.g., TAA, TAG, TGA). Typically, this is the only stop-codon of the coding region. Thus, a coding region in the context of the present invention is preferably a nucleotide sequence, consisting of a number of nucleotides that may be divided by three, which starts with a start codon (e.g. ATG) and which preferably terminates with a stop codon (e.g., TAA, TGA, or TAG). The coding region may be isolated or it may be incorporated in a longer nucleic acid sequence, for example in a vector or an mRNA. In the context of the present invention, a coding region may also be termed “protein coding region”, “coding sequence”, “CDS”, “open reading frame” or “ORF”.

Derived from: The phrase “derived from” as used throughout the present specification in the context of a nucleic acid, i.e. for a nucleic acid “derived from” (another) nucleic acid, means that the nucleic acid, which is derived from (another) nucleic acid, shares at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 75%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, and particularly preferably at least 98% sequence identity with the nucleic acid from which it is derived. In one embodiment, “derived from” means having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 80%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 84%, 65%, 66%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 968%, 97%, 98%, or 99% or more sequence identity to the sequences as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 1-39690, 39713-39748. The skilled person is aware that sequence identity is typically calculated for the same types of nucleic acids, i.e. for DNA sequences or for RNA sequences. Thus, it is understood, if a DNA is “derived from” an RNA or if an RNA is “derived from” a DNA, in a first step the RNA sequence is converted into the corresponding DNA sequence (in particular by replacing the uracils (U) by thymidines (T) throughout the sequence) or, vice versa, the DNA sequence is converted into the corresponding RNA sequence (in particular by replacing the thymidines (T) by uracils (U) throughout the sequence). Thereafter, the sequence identity of the DNA sequences or the sequence identity of the RNA sequences is determined. Preferably, a nucleic acid “derived from” a nucleic acid also refers to nucleic acid, which is modified in comparison to the nucleic acid from which it is derived, e.g. in order to increase RNA stability even further and/or to prolong and/or increase protein production. It goes without saying that such modifications are preferred, which do not impair RNA stability, e.g. in comparison to the nucleic acid from which it is derived.

Different Noro virus: The term “different Noro virus” in the context of the invention has to be understood as the difference between at least two respective Noroviruses, wherein the difference is manifested on the RNA genome of the respective different virus. In the broadest sense, “different Norovirus” has to be understood as genetically “different Norovirus”. Particularly, said (genetically) different Noroviruses express at least one different protein or peptide, wherein the at least one different protein or peptide preferably differs in at least one amino acid.

Same Norovirus: In the broadest sense, “same Norovirus” has to be understood as genetically the same. Particularly, said (genetically) same virus expresses the same proteins or peptides (e.g., at least one structural and/or non-structural protein), wherein all proteins or peptides have the same amino acid sequence.

DNA: DNA is the usual abbreviation for deoxy-ribonucleic acid. It is a nucleic acid molecule, i.e. a polymer consisting of nucleotides. These nucleotides are usually deoxy-adenosine-monophosphate, deoxy-thymidine-monophosphate. deoxy-guanosine-monophosphate and deoxy-cytidine-monophosphate monomers which are—by themselves—composed of a sugar moiety (deoxyribose), a base moiety and a phosphate moiety, and polymerize by a characteristic backbone structure. The backbone structure is, typically, formed by phosphodiester bonds between the sugar moiety of the nucleotide, i.e. deoxyribose, of a first and a phosphate moiety of a second, adjacent monomer. The specific order of the monomers, i.e. the order of the bases linked to the sugar/phosphate-backbone, is called the DNA sequence. DNA may be single stranded or double stranded. In the double stranded form, the nucleotides of the first strand typically hybridize with the nucleotides of the second strand, e.g. by A/T-base-pairing and G/C-base-pairing.

Mono-, bi- and multicistronic and multi-antigen nucleic acids: A monocistronic nucleic acid may typically be a DNA or RNA, particularly an mRNA that comprises only one coding sequences. A coding sequence in this context is a sequence of several nucleotide triplets (codons) that can be translated into a peptide or protein

According to a further embodiment the coding region of the at least one mRNA of the composition may encode at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight and more antigens (or fragments and derivatives thereof) linked with or without an amino acid linker sequence, wherein said linker sequence can comprise rigid linkers, flexible linkers, cleavable linkers (e.g., self-cleaving peptides) or a combination thereof. Therein, the antigens may be identical or different or a combination thereof. According to the present invention, specific antigen and/or epitope combinations according to the paragraph “specific antigen combinations” disclosed above are particularly envisioned. Particular antigen/epitope combinations can be encoded by said mRNA encoding at least two antigens as explained above (herein referred to as “multi-antigen-constructs/mRNA”).

According to a further embodiment the composition of the present invention, may comprise a mixture of at least one monocistronic mRNA, as defined above, and/or at least one bicistronic mRNA as defined above, and/or at least one multicistronic mRNA, as defined above, and/or at least one multi-antigen-constructs as defined above, and any combinations thereof. According to the present invention, specific antigen combinations according to the paragraph “specific antigen combinations” disclosed above are particularly envisioned and may be generated using a combination of mono-, bi-, multicistronic mRNA and multi-antigen-constructs.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the mRNA sequence is mono-, bi-, or multicistronic, preferably as defined herein. The coding sequences in a bi- or multicistronic mRNA preferably encode distinct peptides or proteins as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof. Preferably, the coding sequences encoding two or more peptides or proteins may be separated in the bi- or multicistronic mRNA by at least one IRES (internal ribosomal entry site) sequence, as defined below. Thus, the term “encoding two or more peptides or proteins” may mean, without being limited thereto, that the bi- or even multicistronic mRNA, may encode e.g. at least two, three, four, five, six or more (preferably different) peptides or proteins or their fragments or variants within the definitions provided herein. More preferably, without being limited thereto, the bi- or even multicistronic mRNA, may encode, for example, at least two, three, four, five, six or more (preferably different) peptides or proteins as defined herein or their fragments or variants as defined herein. In this context, a so-called IRES (internal ribosomal entry site) sequence as defined above can function as a sole ribosome binding site, but it can also serve to provide a bi- or even multicistronic mRNA as defined above, which encodes several peptides or proteins which are to be translated by the ribosomes independently of one another. Examples of IRES sequences, which can be used according to the invention, are those from picornaviruses (e.g. FMDV), pestiviruses (CFFV), polioviruses (PV), encephalomyocarditis viruses (ECMV), foot and mouth disease viruses (FMDV), hepatitis C viruses (HCV), classical swine fever viruses (CSFV), mouse leukoma virus (MLV), simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIV) or cricket paralysis viruses (CrPV).

According to a further embodiment the at least one coding region of the mRNA sequence according to the invention may encode at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight and more peptides or proteins (or fragments and derivatives thereof) as defined herein linked with or without an amino acid linker sequence, wherein said linker sequence can comprise rigid linkers, flexible linkers, cleavable linkers (e.g., self-cleaving peptides) or a combination thereof. Therein, the peptides or proteins may be identical or different or a combination thereof. Particular peptide or protein combinations can be encoded by said mRNA encoding at least two peptides or proteins as explained herein (also referred to herein as “multi-antigen-constructs/mRNA”).

Epitope: (also called “antigen determinant”) can be distinguished in T cell epitopes and B cell epitopes. T cell epitopes or parts of the proteins in the context of the present invention may comprise fragments preferably having a length of about B to about 20 or even more amino acids, e.g. fragments as processed and presented by MHC class I molecules, preferably having a length of about 8 to about 10 amino acids, e.g. 8, 9, or 10, (or even 11, or 12 amino acids), or fragments as processed and presented by MHC class II molecules, preferably having a length of about 13 or more amino acids, e.g. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or even more amino acids, wherein these fragments may be selected from any part of the amino acid sequence. These fragments are typically recognized by T cells in form of a complex consisting of the peptide fragment and an MHC molecule, i.e. the fragments are typically not recognized in their native form. B cell epitopes are typically fragments located on the outer surface of (native) protein or peptide antigens as defined herein, preferably having 5 to 15 amino acids, more preferably having 5 to 12 amino acids, even more preferably having 6 to 9 amino acids, which may be recognized by antibodies, i.e. in their native form. Such epitopes of proteins or peptides may furthermore be selected from any of the herein mentioned variants of such proteins or peptides. In this context antigenic determinants can be conformational or discontinuous epitopes which are composed of segments of the proteins or peptides as defined herein that are discontinuous in the amino acid sequence of the proteins or peptides as defined herein but are brought together in the three-dimensional structure or continuous or linear epitopes which are composed of a single polypeptide chain.

Fragment of a sequence: A fragment of a sequence may typically be a shorter portion of a full-length sequence of e.g. a nucleic acid molecule or an amino acid sequence. Accordingly, a fragment, typically, consists of a sequence that is identical to the corresponding stretch within the full-length sequence. A preferred fragment of a sequence in the context of the present invention, consists of a continuous stretch of entities, such as nucleotides or amino acids corresponding to a continuous stretch of entities in the molecule the fragment is derived from, which represents at least 5%, 10%, 20%, preferably at least 301%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, even more preferably at least 31%, even more preferably at least 70%, and most preferably at least 801% of the total (i.e. full-length) molecule from which the fragment is derived.

G/C modified: A G/C-modified nucleic acid may typically be a nucleic acid, preferably an artificial nucleic acid molecule as defined herein, based on a modified wild type sequence comprising a preferably increased number of guanosine and/or cytosine nucleotides as compared to the wild type sequence. Such an increased number may be generated by substitution of codons containing adenosine or thymidine nucleotides by codons containing guanosine or cytosine nucleotides. If the enriched G/C content occurs in a coding region of DNA or RNA, it makes use of the degeneracy of the genetic code. Accordingly, the codon substitutions preferably do not alter the encoded amino acid residues, but exclusively increase the G/C content of the nucleic acid molecule.

Gene therapy: Gene therapy may typically be understood to mean a treatment of a patient's body or isolated elements of a patient's body, for example isolated tissues/cells, by nucleic acids encoding a peptide or protein. It typically may comprise at least one of the steps of a) administration of a nucleic acid, preferably an artificial nucleic acid molecule as defined herein, directly to the patient—by whatever administration route—or in vitro to isolated cells/tissues of the patient, which results in transfection of the patient's cells either in vivo/ex vivo or in vitro; b) transcription and/or translation of the introduced nucleic acid molecule: and optionally c) re-administration of isolated, transfected cells to the patient, if the nucleic acid has not been administered directly to the patient.

Genetic vaccination: Genetic vaccination may typically be understood to be vaccination by administration of a nucleic acid molecule encoding an antigen or an immunogen or fragments thereof. The nucleic acid molecule may be administered to a subject's body or to isolated cells of a subject. Upon transfection of certain cells of the body or upon transfection of the isolated cells, the antigen or immunogen may be expressed by those cells and subsequently presented to the immune system, eliciting an adaptive, i.e. antigen-specific immune response. Accordingly, genetic vaccination typically comprises at least one of the steps of a) administration of a nucleic acid, preferably an artificial nucleic acid molecule as defined herein, to a subject, preferably a patient, or to isolated cells of a subject, preferably a patient, which usually results in transfection of the subject's cells either in vivo or in vitro; b) transcription and/or translation of the introduced nucleic acid molecule; and optionally c) re-administration of isolated, transfected cells to the subject, preferably the patient, if the nucleic acid has not been administered directly to the patient.

Genotype, genotype of a virus: The terms “genotype” or “genotype of a virus” have to be understood as the genetic constitution of an individual or a group or class of organisms having the same genetically consistent structure. Genotyping means determining differences in the genetic of an individual. In the context of the invention, Norovirus genotype has to be understood as a Noro virus having the same genetically consistent structure.

Heterologous sequence: Two sequences are typically understood to be “heterologous” if they are not derivable from the same gene or in the same allele. I.e., although heterologous sequences may be derivable from the same organism, they naturally (in nature) do not occur in the same nucleic acid molecule, such as in the same mRNA.

Homolog of a nucleic acid sequence: The term “homolog” of a nucleic acid sequence refers to sequences of other species than the particular sequence. It is particularly preferred that the nucleic acid sequence is of human origin and therefore it is preferred that the homolog is a homolog of a human nucleic acid sequence.

Humoral immunity/humoral immune response: Humoral immunity refers typically to antibody production and optionally to accessory processes accompanying antibody production. A humoral immune response may be typically characterized, e.g., by Th2 activation and cytokine production, germinal center formation and isotype switching, affinity maturation and memory cell generation. Humoral immunity also typically may refer to the effector functions of antibodies, which include pathogen and toxin neutralization, classical complement activation, and opsonin promotion of phagocytosis and pathogen elimination.

Immunogen: In the context of the present invention an immunogen may be typically understood to be a compound that is able to stimulate an immune response. Preferably, an immunogen is a peptide, polypeptide, or protein. In a particularly preferred embodiment, an immunogen in the sense of the present invention is the product of translation of a provided nucleic acid molecule, preferably an artificial nucleic acid molecule as defined herein. Typically, an immunogen elicits at least an adaptive immune response.

Immunostimulatory composition: In the context of the invention, an immunostimulatory composition may be typically understood to be a composition containing at least one component which is able to induce an immune response or from which a component which is able to induce an immune response is derivable. Such immune response may be preferably an innate immune response or a combination of an adaptive and an innate immune response. Preferably, an immunostimulatory composition in the context of the invention contains at least one artificial nucleic acid molecule, more preferably an RNA, for example an mRNA molecule. The immunostimulatory component, such as the mRNA may be complexed with a suitable carrier. Thus, the immunostimulatory composition may comprise an mRNA/carrier-complex. Furthermore, the immunostimulatory composition may comprise an adjuvant and/or a suitable vehicle for the immunostimulatory component, such as the mRNA.

Immune response: An immune response may typically be a specific reaction of the adaptive immune system to a particular antigen (so called specific or adaptive immune response) or an unspecific reaction of the innate immune system (so called unspecific or innate immune response), or a combination thereof.

Immune system: The immune system may protect organisms from infection. If a pathogen succeeds in passing a physical barrier of an organism and enters this organism, the innate immune system provides an immediate, but non-specific response. If pathogens evade this innate response, vertebrates possess a second layer of protection, the adaptive immune system. Here, the immune system adapts its response during an infection to improve its recognition of the pathogen. This improved response is then retained after the pathogen has been eliminated, in the form of an immunological memory, and allows the adaptive immune system to mount faster and stronger attacks each time this pathogen is encountered. According to this, the immune system comprises the innate and the adaptive immune system. Each of these two parts typically contains so called humoral and cellular components.

Immunostimulatory RNA: An immunostimulatory RNA (isRNA) in the context of the invention may typically be an RNA that is able to induce an innate immune response. It usually does not have a coding region and thus does not provide a peptide-antigen or immunogen but elicits an immune response e.g. by binding to a specific kind of Toll-like-receptor (TLR) or other suitable receptors. However, of course also mRNAs having a coding region and coding for a peptide/protein may induce an innate immune response and, thus, may be immunostimulatory RNAs.

Innate immune system: The innate immune system, also known as non-specific (or unspecific) immune system, typically comprises the cells and mechanisms that defend the host from infection by other organisms in a non-specific manner. This means that the cells of the innate system may recognize and respond to pathogens in a generic way, but unlike the adaptive immune system, it does not confer long-lasting or protective immunity to the host. The innate immune system may be, e.g., activated by ligands of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) or other auxiliary substances such as lipopolysaccharides. TNF-alpha, CD40 ligand, or cytokines, monokines, lymphokines, interleukins or chemokines, IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-11, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IL-19, IL-20, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27, IL-28, IL-29, IL-30, IL-31, IL-32, IL-33. IFN-alpha, IFN-beta, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, LT-beta, TNF-alpha, growth factors, and hGH, a ligand of human Toll-like receptor TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, a ligand of murine Toll-like receptor TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, TLR11, TLR12 or TLR13, a ligand of a NOD-like receptor, a ligand of a RIG-I like receptor, an immunostimulatory nucleic acid, an immunostimulatory RNA (isRNA), a CpG-DNA, an antibacterial agent, or an anti-viral agent. The pharmaceutical composition according to the present invention may comprise one or more such substances. Typically, a response of the innate immune system includes recruiting immune cells to sites of infection, through the production of chemical factors, including specialized chemical mediators, called cytokines; activation of the complement cascade; identification and removal of foreign substances present in organs, tissues, the blood and lymph, by specialized white blood cells; activation of the adaptive immune system; and/or acting as a physical and chemical barrier to infectious agents.

Jet injection: The term “jet injection”, as used herein, refers to a needle-free injection method, wherein a fluid containing at least one inventive nucleic acid sequence (e.g., RNA, DNA, mRNA) and, optionally, further suitable excipients is forced through an orifice, thus generating an ultra-fine liquid stream of high pressure that is capable of penetrating mammalian skin and, depending on the injection settings, subcutaneous tissue or muscle tissue. In principle, the liquid stream forms a hole in the skin, through which the liquid stream is pushed into the target tissue. Preferably, jet injection is used for intradermal, subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of the mRNA sequence according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment, jet injection is used for intramuscular injection of the mRNA sequence according to the invention. In a further preferred embodiment, jet injection is used for intradermal injection of the mRNA sequence according to the invention.

Monovalent/monovalent vaccine: A monovalent vaccine, also called univalent vaccine, is designed against a single antigen for a single organism. The term “monovalent vaccine” includes the immunization against a single valence. In the context of the invention, a monovalent Norovirus vaccine would comprise a vaccine comprising an artificial nucleic acid encoding one single antigenic peptide or protein derived from one specific Norovirus strain.

Nucleic acid molecule: A nucleic acid molecule, an artificial nucleic acid, or nucleic acid is a molecule comprising, preferably consisting of nucleic acid components. The terms nucleic acid molecule, artificial nucleic acid, or nucleic acid preferably refer to DNA or RNA molecules and vice versa. It is preferably used synonymous with the term “polynucleotide”. Preferably, a nucleic acid molecule is a polymer comprising or consisting of nucleotide monomers, which are covalently linked to each other by phosphodiester-bonds of a sugar/phosphate-backbone. The terms “nucleic acid molecule”, “artificial nucleic acid” or “nucleic acid” also encompasses modified nucleic acid molecules, such as base-modified, sugar-modified or backbone-modified etc. It encompasses any type of DNA or RNA molecules.

Nucleic acid sequence/amino acid: The sequence of a nucleic acid molecule is typically understood to be the particular and individual order, i.e. the succession of its nucleotides. The sequence of a protein or peptide is typically understood to be the order, i.e. the succession of its amino acids.

Peptide: A peptide or polypeptide is typically a polymer of amino acid monomers, linked by peptide bonds. It typically contains less than 50 monomer units. Nevertheless, the term peptide is not a disclaimer for molecules having more than 50 monomer units. Long peptides are also called polypeptides, typically having between 50 and 600 monomeric units. The term “polypeptide” as used herein, however, is typically not limited by the length of the molecule it refers to. In the context of the present invention, the term “polypeptide” may also be used with respect to peptides comprising less than 50 (e.g. 10) amino acids or peptides comprising even more than 600 amino acids. Also, the terms “polypeptide”, “peptide”, and “protein” are used interchangeably herein to refer to polymers of amino acids of any length.

Pharmaceutically effective amount: A pharmaceutically effective amount in the context of the invention is typically understood to be an amount that is sufficient to induce a pharmaceutical effect, such as an immune response, altering a pathological level of an expressed peptide or protein, or substituting a lacking gene product, e.g., in case of a pathological situation.

Protein: A protein typically comprises one or more peptides or polypeptides. A protein is typically folded into 3-dimensional form, which may be required for the protein to exert its biological function.

Poly(A) sequence: A poly(A) sequence, also called poly(A) tail or 3′-poly(A) tail, is typically understood to be a sequence of adenosine nucleotides, e.g., of up to about 400 adenosine nucleotides, e.g. from about 20 to about 400, preferably from about 50 to about 400, more preferably from about 50 to about 300, even more preferably from about 50 to about 250, most preferably from about 60 to about 250 adenosine nucleotides. A poly(A) sequence is typically located at the 3′-end of an mRNA. In the context of the present invention, a poly(A) sequence may be located within an mRNA or any other nucleic acid molecule, such as, e.g., in a vector, for example, in a vector serving as template for the generation of an RNA, preferably an mRNA, e.g., by transcription of the vector. Moreover, poly(A) sequences, or poly(A) tails may be generated in vitro by enzymatic polyadenylation of the RNA, e.g. using Poly(A)polymerases (PAP) derived from E. coli or yeast. In addition, polyadenylation of RNA can be achieved by using immobilized PAP enzymes e.g. in a polyadenylation reactor (WO 2016/174271).

Poly(C) sequence: A poly(C) sequence is typically a long sequence of cytosine nucleotides, typically about 10 to about 21100 cytosine nucleotides, preferably about 10 to about 100 cytosine nucleotides, more preferably about 10 to about 70 cytosine nucleotides or even more, preferably about 20 to about 50, or even about 20 to about 30 cytosine nucleotides. A poly(C) sequence may preferably be located 3′ of the coding sequence comprised by a nucleic acid.

Polyadenylation: Polyadenylation is typically understood to be the addition of a poly(A) sequence to a nucleic acid molecule, such as an RNA molecule, e.g. to a premature mRNA. Polyadenylation may be induced by a so called polyadenylation signal. This signal is preferably located within a stretch of nucleotides at the 3′-end of a nucleic acid molecule, such as an RNA molecule, to be polyadenylated. A polyadenylation signal typically comprises a hexamer consisting of adenine and uracil/thymine nucleotides, preferably the hexamer sequence AAUAAA. Other sequences, preferably hexamer sequences, are also conceivable. Polyadenylation typically occurs during processing of a pre-mRNA (also called premature-mRNA). Typically, RNA maturation (from pre-mRNA to mature mRNA) comprises the step of polyadenylation.

Polyvalent/polyvalent vaccine: A polyvalent vaccine, called also multivalent vaccine, containing antigens from more than one strain of a virus, or different antigens of the same virus, or any combination thereof. The term “polyvalent vaccine” describes that this vaccine has more than one valence. In the context of the invention, a polyvalent Norovirus vaccine would comprise a vaccine comprising an artificial nucleic acid encoding antigenic peptides or proteins derived from several different Norovirus strains or comprising artificial nucleic acid encoding different antigens from the same Norovirus strain, or a combination thereof. In preferred embodiment, a polyvalent Norovirus vaccine comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 84, 95, 98, 97, 98, 99, 100 or even more different artificial nucleic acids each encoding at least one different antigenic peptide or protein. Methods to produce polyvalent mRNA vaccines are disclosed in the PCT application PCT/EP2016/82487.

Restriction site: A restriction site, also termed restriction enzyme recognition site, is a nucleotide sequence recognized by a restriction enzyme. A restriction site is typically a short, preferably palindromic nucleotide sequence, e.g. a sequence comprising 4 to 8 nucleotides. A restriction site is preferably specifically recognized by a restriction enzyme. The restriction enzyme typically cleaves a nucleotide sequence comprising a restriction site at this site. In a double-stranded nucleotide sequence, such as a double-stranded DNA sequence, the restriction enzyme typically cuts both strands of the nucleotide sequence.

RNA, mRNA: RNA is the usual abbreviation for ribonucleic-acid. It is a nucleic acid molecule, i.e. a polymer consisting of nucleotides. These nucleotides are usually adenosine-monophosphate, uridine-monophosphate, guanosine-monophosphate and cytidine-monophosphate monomers which are connected to each other along a so-called backbone. The backbone is formed by phosphodiester bonds between the sugar, i.e. ribose, of a first and a phosphate moiety of a second, adjacent monomer. The specific succession of the monomers is called the RNA-sequence. Usually RNA may be obtainable by transcription of a DNA-sequence, e.g., inside a cell. In eukaryotic cells, transcription is typically performed inside the nucleus or the mitochondria. Typically, transcription of DNA usually results in the so-called premature RNA which has to be processed into so-called messenger-RNA, usually abbreviated as mRNA. Processing of the premature RNA, e.g. in eukaryotic organisms, comprises a variety of different posttranscriptional-modifications such as splicing, 5′-capping, polyadenylation, export from the nucleus or the mitochondria and the like. The sum of these processes is also called maturation of RNA. The mature messenger RNA usually provides the nucleotide sequence that may be translated into an amino-acid sequence of a particular peptide or protein. Typically, a mature mRNA comprises a 5′-cap, a 5′-UTR, a coding region, a 3′-UTR and a poly(A) sequence. Aside from messenger RNA, several non-coding types of RNA exist which may be involved in regulation of transcription and/or translation.

Stabilized nucleic acid, preferably mRNA: A stabilized nucleic acid, preferably mRNA typically, exhibits a modification increasing resistance to in vivo degradation (e.g. degradation by an exo- or endo-nuclease) and/or ex vivo degradation (e.g. by the manufacturing process prior to vaccine administration, e.g. in the course of the preparation of the vaccine solution to be administered). Stabilization of RNA can, e.g., be achieved by providing a 5′-cap-Structure, a Poly-A-Tail, or any other UTR-modification. It can also be achieved by chemical modification or modification of the G/C content of the nucleic acid or other types of sequence optimization. Various other methods are known in the art and conceivable in the context of the invention.

Sequence identity: Two or more sequences are identical if they exhibit the same length and order of nucleotides or amino acids. The percentage of identity typically describes the extent, to which two sequences are identical, i.e. it typically describes the percentage of nucleotides that correspond in their sequence position with identical nucleotides of a reference sequence. In order to determine the degree of identity, the sequences to be compared are considered to exhibit the same length, i.e. the length of the longest sequence of the sequences to be compared. This means that a first sequence consisting of 8 nucleotides is 80% identical to a second sequence consisting of 10 nucleotides comprising the first sequence. Hence, in the context of the present invention, identity of sequences preferably relates to the percentage of nucleotides of a sequence which have the same position in two or more sequences having the same length. Therefore, e.g. a position of a first sequence may be compared with the corresponding position of the second sequence. If a position in the first sequence is occupied by the same component (residue) as is the case at a position in the second sequence, the two sequences are identical at this position. If this is not the case, the sequences differ at this position. If insertions occur in the second sequence in comparison to the first sequence, gaps can be inserted into the first sequence to allow a further alignment. If deletions occur in the second sequence in comparison to the first sequence, gaps can be inserted into the second sequence to allow a further alignment. The percentage to which two sequences are identical is then a function of the number of identical positions divided by the total number of positions including those positions which are only occupied in one sequence. The percentage to which two sequences are identical can be determined using a mathematical algorithm. A preferred, but not limiting, example of a mathematical algorithm which can be used is the algorithm of Karlin et al. (1993), PNAS USA, 90:5873-5877 or Altschul et al. (1997), Nucleic Acids Res., 25:3389-3402. Such an algorithm is integrated in the BLAST program. Sequences which are identical to the sequences of the present invention to a certain extent can be identified by this program.

Serotype, serotype of a virus: A serotype or a serotype of a virus is a group of viruses classified together based on their antigens on the surface of the virus, allowing the epidemiologic classification of organisms to the sub-species level.

Strain, strain of a virus: A strain or a strain of a virus is a group of viruses that are genetically distinct from other groups of the same species. The strain that is defined by a genetic variant is also defined as a “subtype”.

Transfection: The term “transfection” refers to the introduction of nucleic acid molecules, such as DNA or RNA (e.g. mRNA) molecules, into cells, preferably into eukaryotic cells. In the context of the present invention, the term “transfection” encompasses any method known to the skilled person for introducing nucleic acid molecules into cells, preferably into eukaryotic cells, such as into mammalian cells. Such methods encompass, for example, electroporation, lipofection, e.g. based on cationic lipids and/or liposomes, calcium phosphate precipitation, nanoparticle based transfection, virus based transfection, or transfection based on cationic polymers, such as DEAE-dextran or polyethylenimine etc. Preferably, the introduction of the nucleic acid, preferably the mRNA is non-viral.

Vaccine: A vaccine is typically understood to be a prophylactic or therapeutic material providing at least one antigen, preferably an immunogen. The antigen or immunogen may be derived from any material that is suitable for vaccination. For example, the antigen or immunogen may be derived from a pathogen, such as from bacteria or virus particles etc., or from a tumor or cancerous tissue. The antigen or immunogen stimulates the body's adaptive immune system to provide an adaptive immune response.

Vector: The term “vector” refers to a nucleic acid molecule, preferably to an artificial nucleic acid molecule. A vector in the context of the present invention is suitable for incorporating or harboring a desired nucleic acid sequence, such as a nucleic acid sequence comprising a coding region. Such vectors may be storage vectors, expression vectors, cloning vectors, transfer vectors etc. A storage vector is a vector which allows the convenient storage of a nucleic acid molecule, for example, of an mRNA molecule. Thus, the vector may comprise a sequence corresponding, e.g., to a desired mRNA sequence or a part thereof, such as a sequence corresponding to the coding region and the 3′-UTR and/or the 5′-UTR of an mRNA. An expression vector may be used for production of expression products such as RNA, e.g. mRNA, or peptides, polypeptides or proteins. For example, an expression vector may comprise sequences needed for transcription of a sequence stretch of the vector, such as a promoter sequence, e.g. an RNA polymerase promoter sequence. A cloning vector is typically a vector that contains a cloning site, which may be used to incorporate nucleic acid sequences into the vector. A cloning vector may be, e.g., a plasmid vector or a bacteriophage vector. A transfer vector may be a vector which is suitable for transferring nucleic acid molecules into cells or organisms, for example, viral vectors. A vector in the context of the present invention may be, e.g., an RNA vector or a DNA vector. Preferably, a vector is a DNA molecule. Preferably, a vector in the sense of the present application comprises a cloning site, a selection marker, such as an antibiotic resistance factor, and a sequence suitable for multiplication of the vector, such as an origin of replication. Preferably, a vector in the context of the present application is a plasmid vector.

RNA in vitro transcription: The terms “RNA in vitro transcription” or “in vitro transcription” relate to a process wherein RNA is synthesized in a cell-free system (in vitro). DNA, particularly plasmid DNA, is used as template for the generation of RNA transcripts. RNA may be obtained by DNA-dependent in vitro transcription of an appropriate DNA template, which according to the present invention is preferably a linearized plasmid DNA template. The promoter for controlling in vitro transcription can be any promoter for any DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Particular examples of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases are the T7, T3, and SP6 RNA polymerases. A DNA template for in vitro RNA transcription may be obtained by cloning of a nucleic acid, in particular cDNA corresponding to the respective RNA to be in vitro transcribed, and introducing it into an appropriate vector for in vitro transcription, for example into plasmid DNA. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the DNA template is linearized with a suitable restriction enzyme, before it is transcribed in vitro. The cDNA may be obtained by reverse transcription of mRNA or chemical synthesis. Moreover, the DNA template for in vitro RNA synthesis may also be obtained by gene synthesis.

Methods for in vitro transcription are known in the art (see, e.g., Geall et al. (2013) Semin. Immunol. 25(2):152-159: Brunelle et al. (2013) Methods Enzymol. 530:101-14). Reagents used in said method typically include:

-   -   1) a linearized DNA template with a promoter sequence that has a         high binding affinity for its respective RNA polymerase such as         bacteriophage-encoded RNA polymerases;     -   2) ribonucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) for the four bases         (adenine, cytosine, guanine and uracil);     -   3) optionally a cap analogue as defined above (e.g.         m7G(5′)ppp(5′)G (m7G)), optionally, fraction of NTPs optimized         to the RNA sequence (according to WD/2015/188933);     -   4) a DNA-dependent RNA polymerase capable of binding to the         promoter sequence within the linearized DNA template (e.g. T7,         T3 or SP6 RNA polymerase);     -   5) optionally a ribonuclease (RNase) inhibitor to inactivate any         contaminating RNase;     -   6) optionally a pyrophosphatase to degrade pyrophosphate, which         may inhibit transcription;     -   7) MgCl2, which supplies Mg2+ ions as a co-factor for the         polymerase;     -   8) a buffer to maintain a suitable pH value, which can also         contain antioxidants (e.g. DTT), and/or polyamines such as         spermidine at optimal concentrations.

Vehicle: A vehicle is typically understood to be a material that is suitable for storing, transporting, and/or administering a compound, such as a pharmaceutically active compound. For example, it may be a physiologically acceptable liquid which is suitable for storing, transporting, and/or administering a pharmaceutically active compound.

Different species/species: The term “species” defines a monophyletic group of viruses whose properties can be distinguished from those of other species by multiple criteria (Adams et al., 2013. Arch Virol 158: 2633-9). The reference to a “different” or “2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different” GI, GII, GIII, GIV or GV, GI.1 or GII.4 Norovirus or Noroviruses as used in the present invention means that a Norovirus from another species, strain or serotype is used or that the properties of the Noroviruses which are used or utilized can be distinguished from those of the other Norovirus by multiple criteria.

3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR): Generally, the term “3′-UTR” refers to a part of the artificial nucleic acid molecule, which is located 3′ (i.e. “downstream”) of a coding region and which is not translated into protein. Typically, a 3′-UTR is the part of an mRNA which is located between the protein coding region (coding region or coding sequence (CDS)) and the poly(A) sequence of the mRNA. In the context of the invention, the term 3′-UTR may also comprise elements, which are not encoded in the template, from which an RNA is transcribed, but which are added after transcription during maturation, e.g. a poly(A) sequence. A 3′-UTR of the mRNA is not translated into an amino acid sequence. The 3′-UTR sequence is generally encoded by the gene which is transcribed into the respective mRNA during the gene expression process. The genomic sequence is first transcribed into pre-mature mRNA, which comprises optional introns. The pre-mature mRNA is then further processed into mature mRNA in a maturation process. This maturation process comprises the steps of 5′capping, splicing the pre-mature mRNA to excize optional introns and modifications of the 3′-end, such as polyadenylation of the 3′-end of the pre-mature mRNA and optional endo-/or exonuclease cleavages etc. In the context of the present invention, a 3′-UTR corresponds to the sequence of a mature mRNA which is located between the stop codon of the protein coding region, preferably immediately 3′ to the stop codon of the protein coding region, and the poly(A) sequence of the mRNA. The term “corresponds to” means that the 3′-UTR sequence may be an RNA sequence, such as in the mRNA sequence used for defining the 3′-UTR sequence, or a DNA sequence which corresponds to such RNA sequence. In the context of the present invention, the term “a 3′-UTR of a gene”, is the sequence which corresponds to the 3′-UTR of the mature mRNA derived from this gene, i.e. the mRNA obtained by transcription of the gene and maturation of the pre-mature mRNA. The term “3′-UTR of a gene” encompasses the DNA sequence and the RNA sequence (both sense and antisense strand and both mature and immature) of the 3′-UTR. Preferably, the 3′-UTRs have a length of more than 20, 30, 40 or 50 nucleotides.

5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR): Generally, the term “5′-UTR” refers to a part of the artificial nucleic acid molecule, which is located 5′ (i.e. “upstream”) of a coding region and which is not translated into protein. A 5′-UTR is typically understood to be a particular section of messenger RNA (mRNA), which is located 5′ of the coding region of the mRNA. Typically, the 5′-UTR starts with the transcriptional start site and ends one nucleotide before the start codon of the coding region. Preferably, the 5′-UTRs have a length of more than 20, 30, 40 or 50 nucleotides. The 5′-UTR may comprise elements for controlling gene expression, also called regulatory elements. Such regulatory elements may be, for example, ribosomal binding sites. The 5′-UTR may be post transcriptionally modified, for example by addition of a 5′-CAP. A 5′-UTR of the mRNA is not translated into an amino acid sequence. The 5′-UTR sequence is generally encoded by the gene which is transcribed into the respective mRNA during the gene expression process. The genomic sequence is first transcribed into pre-mature mRNA, which comprises optional introns. The pre-mature mRNA is then further processed into mature mRNA in a maturation process. This maturation process comprises the steps of 5′capping, splicing the pre-mature mRNA to excize optional introns and modifications of the 3′-end, such as polyadenylation of the 3′-end of the pre-mature mRNA and optional endo-/or exonuclease cleavages etc. In the context of the present invention, a 5′-UTR corresponds to the sequence of a mature mRNA which is located between the start codon and, for example, the 5′-cap. Preferably, the 5′-UTR corresponds to the sequence which extends from a nucleotide located 3′ to the 5′-cap, more preferably from the nucleotide located immediately 3′ to the 5′-cap, to a nucleotide located 5′ to the start codon of the protein coding region, preferably to the nucleotide located immediately 5′ to the start codon of the protein coding region. The nucleotide located immediately 3′ to the 5′-cap of a mature mRNA typically corresponds to the transcriptional start site. The term “corresponds to” means that the 5′-UTR sequence may be an RNA sequence, such as in the mRNA sequence used for defining the 5′-UTR sequence, or a DNA sequence which corresponds to such RNA sequence. In the context of the present invention, the term “a 5′-UTR of a gene” is the sequence which corresponds to the 5′-UTR of the mature mRNA derived from this gene, i.e. the mRNA obtained by transcription of the gene and maturation of the pre-mature mRNA. The term “5′-UTR of a gene” encompasses the DNA sequence and the RNA sequence (both sense and antisense strand and both mature and immature) of the 5′-UTR.

5′-Terminal Oligopyrimidine Tract (TOP): The 5′-terminal oligopyrimidine tract (TOP) is typically a stretch of pyrimidine nucleotides located in the 5′-terminal region of a nucleic acid molecule, such as the 5′-terminal region of certain mRNA molecules or the 5′-terminal region of a functional entity, e.g. the transcribed region, of certain genes. The sequence starts with a cytidine, which usually corresponds to the transcriptional start site, and is followed by a stretch of usually about 3 to 30 pyrimidine nucleotides. For example, the TOP may comprise 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or even more nucleotides. The pyrimidine stretch and thus the 5′ TOP ends one nucleotide 5′ to the first purine nucleotide located downstream of the TDP. Messenger RNA that contains a 5′-terminal oligopyrimidine tract is often referred to as TOP mRNA. Accordingly, genes that provide such messenger RNAs are referred to as TOP genes. TOP sequences have, for example, been found in genes and mRNAs encoding peptide elongation factors and ribosomal proteins.

TOP motif: In the context of the present invention, a TOP motif is a nucleic acid sequence which corresponds to a 5′TOP as defined above. Thus, a TOP motif in the context of the present invention is preferably a stretch of pyrimidine nucleotides having a length of 3-30 nucleotides. Preferably, the TDP-motif consists of at least 3 pyrimidine nucleotides, preferably at least 4 pyrimidine nucleotides, preferably at least 5 pyrimidine nucleotides, more preferably at least 6 nucleotides, more preferably at least 7 nucleotides, most preferably at least 8 pyrimidine nucleotides, wherein the stretch of pyrimidine nucleotides preferably starts at its 5′-end with a cytosine nucleotide. In TDP genes and TOP mRNAs, the TDP-motif preferably starts at its 5′-end with the transcriptional start site and ends one nucleotide 5′ to the first purin residue in said gene or mRNA. A TOP motif in the sense of the present invention is preferably located at the 5′-end of a sequence which represents a 5′-UTR or at the 5′-end of a sequence which codes for a 5′-UTR. Thus, preferably, a stretch of 3 or more pyrimidine nucleotides is called “TOP motif” in the sense of the present invention if this stretch is located at the 5′-end of a respective sequence, such as the artificial nucleic acid molecule, the 5′-UTR element of the artificial nucleic acid molecule, or the nucleic acid sequence which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene as described herein. In other words, a stretch of 3 or more pyrimidine nucleotides, which is not located at the 5′-end of a 5′-UTR or a 5′-UTR element but anywhere within a 5′-UTR or a 5′-UTR element, is preferably not referred to as “TOP motif”.

TOP gene: TOP genes are typically characterised by the presence of a 5′-terminal oligopyrimidine tract. Furthermore, most TOP genes are characterized by a growth-associated translational regulation. However, also TOP genes with a tissue specific translational regulation are known. As defined above, the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene corresponds to the sequence of a 5′-UTR of a mature mRNA derived from a TOP gene, which preferably extends from the nucleotide located 3′ to the 5′-cap to the nucleotide located 5′ to the start codon. A 5′-UTR of a TOP gene typically does not comprise any start codons, preferably no upstream AUGs (uAUGs) or upstream coding regions (uORFs). Therein, upstream AUGs and upstream coding regions are typically understood to be AUGs and coding regions that occur 5′ of the start codon (AUG) of the coding region that should be translated. The 5′-UTRs of TOP genes are generally rather short. The lengths of 5′-UTRs of TOP genes may vary between 20 nucleotides up to 500 nucleotides, and are typically less than about 200 nucleotides, preferably less than about 150 nucleotides, more preferably less than about 100 nucleotides. Exemplary 5′-UTRs of TOP genes in the sense of the present invention are the nucleic acid sequences extending from the nucleotide at position 5 to the nucleotide located immediately 5′ to the start codon (e.g. the ATG) in the sequences according to SEQ ID NOs: 1-1383 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, whose disclosure is incorporated herewith by reference. In this context a particularly preferred fragment of a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene is a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene lacking the 5′TOP motif. The terms “5′-UTR of a TOP gene” or “5′-TOP UTR” preferably refer to the 5′-UTR of a naturally occurring TOP gene.

Orthologues and paralogues: Orthologues and paralogues encompass evolutionary concepts used to describe the ancestral relationships of genes. Paralogues are genes within the same species that have originated through duplication of an ancestral gene; orthologues are genes from different organisms that have originated through speciation, and are also derived from a common ancestral gene. In the context of the invention, an orthologue and/or a paralogue of a Norovirus nucleic acid sequence of the invention preferably refers to a sequence having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58% 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% or more sequence identity to the sequence as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39748. In the context of the invention, an orthologue and/or a paralogue of a Norovirus amino acid sequence of the invention refers preferably to a sequence having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 68%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83% 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% or more sequence identity to the sequence as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410.

Hybridization/Homology: Nucleic acid molecules which are advantageously for the process according to the invention can be isolated based on their homology to the nucleic acid molecules or a complement sequence of the nucleic acid molecules disclosed herein using the sequences or part thereof as hybridization probe and following standard hybridization techniques under stringent hybridization conditions. In this context, it is possible to use, for example, isolated nucleic acid molecules of at least 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60 or more nucleotides, preferably of at least 15, 20 or 25 nucleotides in length which hybridize under stringent conditions with the above-described nucleic acid molecules, in particular with those which encompass a nucleotide sequence of the nucleic acid molecule used in the invention or encoding a protein used in the invention or of the nucleic acid molecule of the invention. Nucleic acid molecules with 35, 50, 100, 250 or more nucleotides may also be used.

The term “homology” means that the respective nucleic acid molecules or encoded proteins are functionally and/or structurally equivalent. The nucleic acid molecules that are homologous to the nucleic acid molecules described above and that are derivatives of said nucleic acid molecules are, for example, variations of said nucleic acid molecules which represent modifications having the same biological function, in particular encoding proteins with the same or substantially the same biological function. They may be naturally occurring variations, such as sequences from other species, strains, or mutations. These mutations may occur naturally or may be obtained by mutagenesis techniques. The allelic variations may be naturally occurring allelic variants as well as synthetically produced or genetically engineered variants. Structurally equivalents can, for example, be identified by testing the binding of said polypeptide to antibodies or computer based predictions.

By “hybridizing” it is meant that such nucleic acid molecules hybridize under conventional hybridization conditions, preferably under stringent conditions such as described by, e.g., Sambrook (Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd Edition, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. (1989)) or in Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, John Wiley & Sons, N.Y. (1989), 6.3.1-6.3.6.

According to the invention, DNA as well as RNA molecules of the nucleic acid of the invention can be used as probes. Further, as template for the identification of functional homologues Northern blot assays as well as Southern blot assays can be performed. The Northern blot assay advantageously provides further information about the expressed gene product: e.g. expression pattern, occurrence of processing steps, like splicing and capping, etc. The Southern blot assay provides additional information about the chromosomal localization and organization of the gene encoding the nucleic acid molecule of the invention.

A preferred, no limiting example of stringent hydridization conditions are hybridizations in 6× sodium chloride/sodium citrate (=SSC) at approximately 45° C., followed by one or more wash steps in 1.2×SSC, 0.1% SDS at 50 to 65° C., for example at 50° C., 55° C. or 60° C. The skilled worker knows that these hybridization conditions differ as a function of the type of the nucleic acid and, for example when organic solvents are present, with regard to the temperature and concentration of the buffer. The temperature under “standard hybridization conditions” differs for example as a function of the type of the nucleic acid between 42° C. and 58° C., preferably between 45° C. and 50° C. in an aqueous buffer with a concentration of 0.1×0.5×, 1×, 2×, 3×, 4× or 5×SSC (pH 7.2). If organic solvent(s) is/are present in the abovementioned buffer, for example 50% formamide, the temperature under standard conditions is approximately 40° C., 42° C. or 45° C. The hybridization conditions for DNA:DNA hybrids are preferably for example 0.1×SSC and 20° C., 25° C., 30° C., 35° C., 40° C. or 45° C., preferably between 30° C. and 45° C. The hybridization conditions for DNA:RNA hybrids are preferably for example 0.1×SSC and 30° C., 35° C. 40° C., 45° C., 50° C. or 55° C., preferably between 45° C. and 55° C. The abovementioned hybridization temperatures are determined for example for a nucleic acid approximately 101 bp (=base pairs) in length and a G+C content of 50% in the absence of formamide. The skilled worker knows to determine the hybridization conditions required with the aid of textbooks, for example the ones mentioned above, or from the following textbooks: Sambrook et al., “Molecular Cloning”, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1989; Hames and Higgins (Ed.) 1985, “Nucleic Acids Hybridization: A Practical Approach”, IRL Press at Oxford University Press, Oxford; Brown (Ed.) 1991, “Essential Molecular Biology: A Practical Approach”, IRL Press at Oxford University Press, Oxford.

A further example of one such stringent hybridization condition is hybridization at 4×SSC at 65° C., followed by a washing in 0.1×SSC at 65° C. for one hour. Alternatively, an exemplary stringent hybridization condition is in 50% formamide, 4×SSC at 42° C. Further, the conditions during the wash step can be selected from the range of conditions delimited by low-stringency conditions (approximately 2×SSC at 50° C.) and high-stringency conditions (approximately 0.2×SSC at 50° C., preferably at 65° C.) (20×SSC: 0.3M sodium citrate, 3M NaCl, pH 7.0). In addition, the temperature during the wash step can be raised from low-stringency conditions at room temperature, approximately 22° C., to higher-stringency conditions at approximately 65° C. Both of the parameters salt concentration and temperature can be varied simultaneously, or else one of the two parameters can be kept constant while only the other is varied. Denaturants, for example formamide or SOS, may also be employed during the hybridization. In the presence of 50% formamide, hybridization is preferably effected at 42° C. Relevant factors like i) length of treatment, ii) salt conditions, iii) detergent conditions, iv) competitor DNAs, v) temperature and vi) probe selection can be combined case by case so that not all possibilities can be mentioned herein.

Some examples of conditions for DNA hybridization (Southern blot assays) and wash step are shown herein below:

-   -   (1) Hybridization conditions can be selected, for example, from         the following conditions:         -   a) 4×SSC at 65° C.,         -   b) 6×SSC at 45° C.,         -   c) 6×SSC, 100 mg/ml denatured fragmented fish sperm DNA at             68° C.,         -   d) 6×SSC, 0.5% SOS, 100 mg/ml denatured salmon sperm DNA at             68° C.,         -   e) 6×SSC, 0.5% SDS, 100 mg/ml denatured fragmented salmon             sperm DNA, 50% formamide at 42° C.,         -   f) 50% formamide, 4×SSC at 42° C.,         -   g) 50% (vol/vol) formamide, 0.1% bovine serum albumin, 0.1%             Ficoll, 0.1% polyvinylpyrrolidone, 50 mM sodium phosphate             buffer pH 6.5, 750 mM NaCl, 75 mM sodium citrate at 42° C.,         -   h) 2× or 4×SSC at 50° C. (low-stringency condition), or         -   i) 30 to 40% formamide, 2× or 4×SSC at 42° C.             (low-stringency condition).     -   (2) Wash steps can be selected, for example, from the following         conditions:         -   a) 0.015 M NaCl/0.0015 M sodium citrate/0.1% SOS at 50° C.         -   b) 0.1×SSC at 65° C.         -   c) 0.1×SSC, 0.5% SDS at 68° C.         -   d) 0.1×SSC, 0.5% SOS, 50% formamide at 42° C.         -   e) 0.2×SSC, 0.1% SDS at 42° C.         -   f) 2×SSC at 65° C. (low-stringency condition).

Further, some applications have to be performed at low stringency hybridisation conditions, without any consequences for the specificity of the hybridisation. For example, a Southern blot analysis of total DNA could be probed with a nucleic acid molecule of the present invention and washed at low stringency (55° C. in 2×SSPE, 0.1% SDS). A further example of such low-stringent hybridization conditions is 4×SSC at 50° C. or hybridization with 30 to 40% formamide at 42° C. Such molecules comprise those which are fragments, analogues or derivatives of the polypeptide of the invention or used in the methods of the invention and differ, for example, by way of amino acid and/or nucleotide deletion(s), insertion(s), substitution (s), addition(s) and/or recombination (s) or any other modification(s) known in the art either alone or in combination from the above-described amino acid sequences or their underlying nucleotide sequence(s). However, it is preferred to use high stringency hybridisation conditions.

Hybridization should advantageously be carried out with fragments of at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 or 40 bp, advantageously at least 50, 60, 70 or 80 bp, preferably at least 90, 100 or 110 bp. Most preferably are fragments of at least 15, 20, 25 or 30 bp. Preferably are also hybridizations with at least 100 bp or 200, very especially preferably at least 400 bp in length. In an especially preferred embodiment, the hybridization should be carried out with the entire nucleic acid sequence with conditions described above.

The term “hybridizes under stringent conditions” is defined above. In one embodiment, the term “hybridizes under stringent conditions” is intended to describe conditions for hybridization and washing under which nucleotide sequences at least 30%, 40%, 50% or 65% identical to each other typically remain hybridized to each other. Preferably, the conditions are such that sequences at least about 70%, more preferably at least about 75% or 80%, and even more preferably at least about 85%, 90% or 95% or more identical to each other typically remain hybridized to each other.

To determine the percentage homology (=identity, herein used interchangeably) of two amino acid sequences or of two nucleic acid molecules, the sequences are written one underneath the other for an optimal comparison (for example gaps may be inserted into the sequence of a protein or of a nucleic acid in order to generate an optimal alignment with the other protein or the other nucleic acid).

The amino acid residues or nucleic acid molecules at the corresponding amino acid positions or nucleotide positions are then compared. If a position in one sequence is occupied by the same amino acid residue or the same nucleic acid molecule as the corresponding position in the other sequence, the molecules are homologous at this position (i.e. amino acid or nucleic acid “homology” as used in the present context corresponds to amino acid or nucleic acid “identity”. The percentage homology between the two sequences is a function of the number of identical positions shared by the sequences (i.e. % homology=number of identical positions/total number of positions×100). The terms “homology” and “identity” are thus to be considered as synonyms.

For the determination of the percentage homology (=identity) of two or more amino acids or of two or more nucleotide sequences several computer software programs have been developed. The homology of two or more sequences can be calculated with for example the software fasta, which presently has been used in the version fasta 3 (W. R. Pearson and D. J. Lipman (1988), Improved Tools for Biological Sequence Comparison. PNAS 85:2444-2448; W. R. Pearson (1990) Rapid and Sensitive Sequence Comparison with FASTP and FASTA, Methods in Enzymology 183:63-98: W. R. Pearson and D. J. Lipman (1988) Improved Tools for Biological Sequence Comparison. PNAS 85:2444-2448: W. R. Pearson (1990); Rapid and Sensitive Sequence Comparison with FASTP and FASTAMethods in Enzymology 183:83-98). Another useful program for the calculation of homologies of different sequences is the standard blast program, which is included in the Biomax pedant software (Biomax, Munich, Federal Republic of Germany). This leads unfortunately sometimes to suboptimal results since blast does not always include complete sequences of the subject and the query. Nevertheless as this program is very efficient it can be used for the comparison of a huge number of sequences. The following settings are typically used for such a comparisons of sequences: -p Program Name [String]; -d Database [String]; default=nr; -i Query File [File In]; default=stdin; -e Expectation value (E) [Real]; default=10.0; -m alignment view options: 0=pairwise; 1=query-anchored showing identities; 2=query-anchored no identities; 3=flat query-anchored, show identities; 4=flat query-anchored, no identities; 5=query-anchored no identities and blunt ends; 6=flat query-anchored, no identities and blunt ends; 7=XML Blast output: 8=tabular; 9 tabular with comment lines [Integer]: default=0; -o BLAST report Output File [File Out] Optional; default=stdout; -F Filter query sequence (DUST with blastn, SEB with others) [String]; default=T; -G Cost to open a gap (zero invokes default behavior) [Integer]; default=D; -E Cost to extend a gap (zero invokes default behavior) [Integer]: default=0: -X X drop-off value for gapped alignment (in bits) (zero invokes default behavior); blastn 30, mega blast 21, tblastx 0, all others 15 [Integer]; default=0; -l Show GI's in deflines [T/F]; default=F; -q Penalty for a nucleotide mismatch (blastn only) [Integer]; default=−3; -r Reward for a nucleotide match (blastn only) [Integer]: default=1; -v Number of database sequences to show one-line descriptions for (V) [Integer]; default=500; -b Number of database sequence to show alignments for (B) [Integer]; default=250; -f Threshold for extending hits, default if zero; blastp 11, blastn 0, blastx 12, tblastn 13; tblastx 13, mega blast 0 [Integer]; default=0; -g Perfom gapped alignment (not available with tblastx) [T/F]; default=T; -Q Query Genetic code to use [Integer]; default=1; -D DB Genetic code (for tblast[nx] only) [Integer]; default=1; -a Number of processors to use [Integer]; default=; -O SeqAlign file [File Out] Optional; -J Believe the query defline [T/F]; default=F; -M Matrix [String]; default=BLOSUM62; -W Word size, default if zero (blastn II, megablast 28, all others 3) [Integer]; default=0; -z Effective length of the database (use zero for the real size) [Real]; default=0; -K Number of best hits from a region to keep (off by default, if used a value of 100 is recommended) [Integer]; default=0; -P 0 for multiple hit, 1 for single hit [Integer]; default=0; -Y Effective length of the search space (use zero for the real size) [Real]; default=0; -S Query strands to search against database (for blast[nx], and tblastx); 3 is both, 1 is top, 2 is bottom [Integer]; default=3; -T Produce HTML output [T/F]; default=F: -I Restrict search of database to list of GI's [String] Optional; -U Use lower case filtering of FASTA sequence [T/F] Optional; default=F; -y X dropoff value for ungapped extensions in bits (0.0 invokes default behavior); blastn 20, megablast 10, all others 7 [Real]; default=0.0: -Z X dropoff value for final gapped alignment in bits (0.0 invokes default behavior); blastn/megablast 50, tblastx 0, all others 25 [Integer]; default=0; -R PSI-TBLASTN checkpoint file [File In] Optional; -n MegaBlast search [T/F]; default=F; -L Location on query sequence [String] Optional; -A Multiple Hits window size, default if zero (blastn/megablast 0, all others 40 [Integer]; default=0: -w Frame shift penalty (00F algorithm for blastx) [Integer]; default=0; -t Length of the largest intron allowed in tblastn for linking HSPs (0 disables linking) [Integer]; default=0.

Results of high quality are reached by using the algorithm of Needleman and Wunsch or Smith and Waterman. Therefore programs based on said algorithms are preferred. Advantageously the comparisons of sequences can be done with the program PileUp (J. Mol. Evolution., 25, 351 (1987), Higgins et al., CABIOS 5, 151 (1989)) or preferably with the programs “Gap” and “Needle”, which are both based on the algorithms of Needleman and Wunsch (J. Mol. Biol. 48; 443 (1970)), and “BestFit”, which is based on the algorithm of Smith and Waterman (Adv. Appl. Math. 2; 482 (1981)). “Gap” and “BestFit” are part of the GCG software-package (Genetics Computer Group, 575 Science Drive, Madison, Wis., USA 53711 (1991); Altschul et al., (Nucleic Acids Res. 25, 3389 (1997)), “Needle” is part of the European Molecular Biology Open Software Suite (EMBOSS) (Trends in Genetics 16 (B), 276 (2000)). Therefore preferably the calculations to determine the percentages of sequence homology are done with the programs “Gap” or “Needle” over the whole range of the sequences. The following standard adjustments for the comparison of nucleic acid sequences were used for “Needle”: matrix: EDNAFULL, Gap_penalty: 10.0. Extend_penalty: 0.5. The following standard adjustments for the comparison of nucleic acid sequences were used for “Gap”: gap weight: 50, length weight: 3, average match: 10.000, average mismatch: 0.000.

For example a sequence, which has 80% homology with sequence SEQ ID NO: 4411 at the nucleic acid level is understood as meaning a sequence which, upon comparison with the sequence SEQ ID NO: 4411 by the above program “Needle” with the above parameter set, has a 80% identity.

Homology between two polypeptides is understood as meaning the identity of the amino acid sequence over in each case the entire sequence length which is calculated by comparison with the aid of the above program “Needle” using Matrix: EBLOSUM62, Gap_penalty: 8.0, Extend_penalty: 2.0.

For example a sequence which has a 80% homology with sequence SEQ ID NO: 1 at the protein level is understood as meaning a sequence which, upon comparison with the sequence SEQ ID NO: 1 by the above program “Needle” with the above parameter set, has a 80% identity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In a first aspect, the invention relates to an artificial nucleic acid comprising or consisting of at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived from a Norovirus, and/or a fragment or variant thereof. In another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising or consisting of at least one Norovirus capsid protein, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid molecule according to the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding the Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or VP2. In another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid encodes Norovirus capsid protein VP1. In this context, a reference to a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 equals a reference to a VP1 capsid protein derived from a Norovirus, a Norovirus VP1, capsid protein, capsid protein VP1, major capsid protein, major capsid protein VP1, major capsid region, major viral capsid protein, or VP1 capsid protein.

In particular, the invention relates to an artificial nucleic acid comprising or consisting of at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide selected from the group consisting of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 (also termed “Major capsid protein” or “capsidprotein”), Norovirus capsid protein VP2 (also termed “Minor capsid protein”) and/or a Norovirus non-structural protein, such as NS1/NS2 (also termed p48 or Nterm (amino terminal protein)), NS3 (also termed NTPase or Nucleoside triphosphatase), NS4 (also termed p22 or 3A-like protein), NS5 (also termed VP1 or Genome-linked viral protein), NS6 (also termed Pro or Proteinase), or NS7 (also termed Pol or RNA-dependent RNA polymerase), and/or a fragment or variant of any of these proteins.

In one embodiment of the invention, vaccines and/or compositions contain VP1 proteins and/or VP2 proteins. Preferably each vaccine and/or composition contains VP1 and/or VP2 proteins from only one Norovirus genogroup giving rise to a monovalent vaccine. As used herein, the term “monovalent” means the antigenic proteins are derived from a single Norovirus genogroup. For example, the vaccines and/or compositions contain VP1 and/or VP2 from a virus strain of genogroup I (e.g. VP1 and VP2 from Norwalk virus).

Preferably the vaccines and/or compositions are comprised of predominantly VP1 proteins. In one embodiment of the invention, the antigen is a mixture of monovalent vaccines and/or compositions wherein the composition includes vaccines and/or compositions comprised of VP1 and/or VP2 from a single Norovirus genogroup mixed with vaccines and/or compositions comprised of VP1 and/or VP2 from a different Norovirus genogroup taken from multiple viral strains (e.g. a Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2 and a Norovirus from Genogroup I.1). Purely by way of example the composition can contain monovalent vaccines and/or compositions from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup I together with monovalent vaccines and/or compositions from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup II. Preferably, the Norovirus vaccines and/or composition mixture is composed of the Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2 and Norovirus from Genogroup I.1 or from different genus or species of a Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2.

Preferably the vaccines and/or compositions are comprised of predominantly VP1 proteins. In one embodiment of the invention, the antigen is a mixture of monovalent vaccines and/or compositions wherein the composition includes vaccines and/or compositions comprised of VP1 and/or VP2 from a single Norovirus genogroup mixed with vaccines and/or compositions comprised of VP1 and/or VP2 from a different Norovirus genogroup taken from multiple viral strains (e.g. a Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2 and a Norovirus from genogroup I.1). Purely by way of example the composition can contain monovalent vaccines and/or compositions from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup I together with monovalent vaccines and/or compositions from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup II. Preferably, the Norovirus vaccines and/or composition mixture is composed of the Norovirus from Genogroup II.4 and Norovirus from Genogroup I.1 or from different genus or species of a Norovirus from Genogroup II.4.

In this context, the amino acid sequence of the at least one antigenic peptide or protein may be selected from any peptide or protein derived from a capsid protein VP1, capsid protein VP2, NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, or NS7 of a Norovirus or a fragment or variant thereof.

Further, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the vaccines and/or compositions may be multivalent vaccines and/or compositions that comprise, for example, VP1 and/or VP2 proteins from one Norovirus genogroup intermixed with VP1 and/or VP2 proteins from a second Norovirus genogroup, wherein the different VP1 and VP2 proteins are not chimeric VP1 and VP2 proteins, but associate together within the same capsid structure to form immunogenic Vaccines and/or compositions. As used herein, the term “multivalent” means that the antigenic proteins are derived from two or more Norovirus genogroups. Multivalent vaccines and/or compositions may contain vaccines and/or composition antigens taken from two or more viral strains. Purely by way of example the composition can contain multivalent vaccines and/or compositions comprised of capsid monomers or multimers from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup I together with capsid monomers or multimers from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup II. Preferably, the Norovirus vaccines and/or composition mixture is composed of the Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2 and Norovirus from Genogroup I.1 or from different genus or species of a Norovirus from Genogroup IV.2.

Further, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the vaccines and/or compositions may be multivalent vaccines and/or compositions that comprise, for example, VP1 and/or VP2 proteins from one Norovirus genogroup intermixed with VP1 and/or VP2 proteins from a second Norovirus genogroup, wherein the different VP1 and VP2 proteins are not chimeric VP1 and VP2 proteins, but associate together within the same capsid structure to form immunogenic Vaccines and/or compositions. As used herein, the term “multivalent” means that the antigenic proteins are derived from two or more Norovirus genogroups. Multivalent vaccines and/or compositions may contain vaccines and/or composition antigens taken from two or more viral strains. Purely by way of example the composition can contain multivalent vaccines and/or compositions comprised of capsid monomers or multimers from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup I together with capsid monomers or multimers from one or more strains of Norovirus genogroup II. Preferably, the Norovirus vaccines and/or composition mixture is composed of the Norovirus from Genogroup II.4 and Norovirus from Genogroup I.1 or from different genus or species of a Norovirus from Genogroup II.4.

In another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more coding regions encoding at least one polypeptide selected from the group consisting of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, Norovirus capsid protein VP2, NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, or NS7, and/or a fragment or variant of any of these proteins.

In a preferred embodiment, the compositions or vaccines of the present invention comprise a multivalent vaccine, e.g., comprising a polynucleotide which encodes at least two different VP1, for example a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from a GII.4 strain and a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from a GI.1 strain. In another embodiment, the compositions or vaccines comprises a multivalent vaccine, e.g., comprising two different polynucleotides, whereby one polynucleotide encodes for example a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from a GII.4 strain and the other polynucleotide encodes a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from a GI.1 strain.

In a further embodiment, the compositions or vaccines of the present invention may comprise a multivalent vaccine, e.g., comprising a polynucleotide which encodes at least two different VP1, for example a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from two different GII.4 strains. In another embodiment, the compositions or vaccines comprise a multivalent vaccine, e.g., comprising two different polynucleotides, whereby one polynucleotide encodes for example a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 from two different GII.4 strains.

In some embodiments, as defined above, the composition or the vaccine is multivalent, i.e. compositions or vaccines of the present invention may vary in their valency. Valency refers to the number of antigenic components in the composition or vaccine. In some embodiments, the compositions or vaccines are monovalent. In some embodiments, the compositions or vaccines are divalent or bivalent. In some embodiments the compositions or vaccines are trivalent. In some embodiments the compositions or vaccines are teravalent. In some embodiments the compositions or vaccines are multi-valent. Multivalent vaccines may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 38, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 7, 68, 89, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more antigens or antigenic moieties (e.g., antigenic peptides, etc.). The antigenic components of the compositions or vaccines may be on a single polynucleotide or on separate polynucleotides. In another embodiment, multivalent vaccines may comprise or at least 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 or 50 or 100 or more antigens or antigenic moieties (e.g., antigenic peptides, etc.). In another embodiment, multivalent vaccines may comprise 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 or more antigens or antigenic moieties (e.g., antigenic peptides, etc.).

In a preferred embodiment, the multivalent composition or vaccine comprises about 30 to about 50 antigens or antigenic moieties.

In some embodiments, the open reading frame of the one or more RNA polynucleotides encodes at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 or at least 10, 15, 20 or 50 or 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 antigenic polypeptides.

In this context it is particularly preferred that the composition comprises at least two mRNA sequences, wherein at least one mRNA sequence encodes at least one antigenic peptide or protein, i.e. VP1, is derived from a GII.4 Norovirus and at least one mRNA sequence encodes at least one antigenic peptide or protein, derived from Norovirus VP1, is derived from another GII.4 Norovirus.

In another preferred embodiment each mRNA sequence encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from proteins of different Noroviruses. Preferably each mRNA sequence encodes at least one antigenic peptide or protein, derived from Norovirus VP1, of different GII.4 Noroviruses or different GI.1 Noroviruses, or a combination thereof.

In a further embodiment, the invention relates to a composition comprising or consisting of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 55, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more separate artificial nucleic acids selected from the group of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39890, 39713-39746 comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived from a Norovirus selected from the group SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410 or a fragment or variant of any of these proteins.

In some embodiments, the open reading frame of the one or more RNA polynucleotides encode at least 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 or 50 or 100 antigenic polypeptides. In some embodiments, the open reading frame of the one or more RNA polynucleotides encode 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 antigenic polypeptides.

The present invention is based on the surprising finding that the at least one Norovirus protein comprised in the at least one polypeptide encoded by the artificial nucleic acid as described herein can efficiently be expressed in a mammalian cell. It was further unexpectedly found that the artificial nucleic acid is suitable for eliciting an immune response against Norovirus in a subject.

Furthermore, the present invention is based on the surprising finding that mRNA-based or artificial nucleic acid vaccines comprising mRNA or artificial nucleic acid sequences encoding different antigens of a Norovirus (particularly Norovirus capsid protein VP1) were extremely effective in inducing an antigen-specific immune response against Norovirus. Furthermore, the inventors surprisingly found that many mRNA sequences encoding different antigens of different Noroviruses can be effectively combined in one mRNA-based vaccine.

In one embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived from a Norovirus and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

In a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide selected from the group consisting of a non-structural protein derived from a Norovirus and/or a capsid protein derived from a Norovirus, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

In a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide selected from the group consisting of Norovirus non-structural proteins NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, NS7, Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and Norovirus capsid protein VP2, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Norovirus:

In the context of the present invention, the term “Norovirus” comprises any Norovirus, irrespective of strain or origin. Preferably, the term “Norovirus” comprises a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of Genogroup I, Genogroup II, Genogroup III, Genogroup IV, or Genogroup V (abbreviated as I, II, GIII, GIV or GV, respectively).

In a further embodiment, the term “Norovirus” comprises a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of

-   -   (i) Genogroup I genotype 1 (abbreviated as GI.1), GI.2, GI.3,         GI.4, GI.5, GI.6, GI.7, GI.8, GI.9, GI.10, GI.11, GI.12, GI.13,         GI.14, GI.15. GI.16 and/or GI.17;     -   (ii) Genogroup II genotype 1 (abbreviated as GII.1), GII.2,         GII.3, GII.4, GII.5, GII.6, GII.7, GII.8, GII.9, GII.10, GII.11,         GII.12, GII.13, GII.14, GII.15, GII.16, GII.17, GII.18, GII.19,         GII.20, GII.21, GII.22, GII.23, and/or GII.24;     -   (iii) Genogroup III genotype 1 (abbreviated as GIII.1), GIII.2,         GIII.3, and/or GIII.4;     -   (iv) Genogroup IV genotype 1 (abbreviated as GIV.1), GIV.2,         GIV.3, and/or GIV.4;     -   (v) Genogroup V genotype 1 (abbreviated as GV.1), GV.2, GV.3,         and/or GV.4;     -   and/or combinations of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or more of         any of the above Noroviruses from different Genogroups and/or         different Genotypes.

In a further embodiment, the nucleic acid of the invention, preferably a VP1 nucleic acid derived from a Norovirus, is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of

-   -   (i) Genogroup I genotype 1 (abbreviated as GI.1). GI.2, GI.3,         GI.4, GI.5, GI.6, GI.7, GI.8, GI.9, GI.10, GI.11, GI.12, GI.13.         GI.14, GI.15, GI.16 and/or GI.17;     -   (ii) Genogroup II genotype 1 (abbreviated as GII.1), GII.2,         GII.3, GII.4, GII.5, GII.6, GII.7, GII.8, GII.9, GII.10, GII.11,         GII.12, GII.13, GII.14, GII.15, GII.16, GII.17, GII.18, GII.19,         GII.20, GII.21, GII.22, GII.23, and/or GII.24;     -   (iii) Genogroup III genotype 1 (abbreviated as GIII.1), GIII.2,         GIII.3, and/or GIII.4;     -   (iv) Genogroup IV genotype 1 (abbreviated as GIV.1). GIV.2,         GIV.3, and/or GIV.4; and     -   (v) Genogroup V genotype 1 (abbreviated as GV.1), GV.2, GV.3,         and/or GV.4.

In the case, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more different VP1 nucleic acids are utilized or employed, for example in a composition of the invention or a vaccine of the invention, the VP1 nucleic acids can be derived from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or more of any of the above Noroviruses from different Genogroups and/or different Genotypes.

In the context of the invention, a reference to GI.1 to GI.17 means a reference to GI.1, GI.2, GI.3, GI.4, GI.5, GI.6, GI.7, GI.8, GI.9, GI.10, GI.11, GI.12, GI.13, GI.14, GI.15, GI.16 and/or GI.17; a reference to GII.1 to GII.24 means a reference to GII.1, GII.2, GII.3, GII.4, GII.5, GII.6, GII.7, GII.8, GII.9, GII.10, GII.11, GII.12, GII.13, GII.14, GII.15, GII.16, GII.17, GII.18, GII.19, GII.20, GII.21, GII.22, GII.23, and/or GII.24; a reference to GIII.1 to GIII.4 means to a reference to GIII.1, GIII.2, GIII.3, and/or GIII.4; a reference to GIV.1 to GIV.4 means to a reference to GIV.1, GIV.2, GIV.3, and/or GIV.4; a reference to GV.1 to GV.4 means to a reference to GV.1, GV.2, GV.3, and/or GV.4.

In other embodiments, the term “Norovirus” comprises a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of a GII.4 Norovirus and/or a GI.1 Norovirus. In a further embodiment, the term “Norovirus” as used herein refers to Norovirus GII.4 CIN-1 (also termed Norovirus Hu/GII.4/031693/USA/2003 or having Accession No. JQ965810.1), GII.4 (Accession No: AY502023.1), GII.4 CIN-002 and/or GII.4 Sydney. In another embodiment, the Norovirus is a GII.4 Sydney Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney 2012 Norovirus.

In other embodiments, the term “Norovirus” comprises a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of a GII.4 Norovirus and/or a GI.1 Norovirus. In a further embodiment, the term “Norovirus” as used herein refers to Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003, Norovirus GII.4/Farmington Hills/2002/USA, Norovirus GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008, Norovirus GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011, Norovirus GII.4-USA-1997, Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein.

In another embodiment, the term “Norovirus” comprises a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Dijon/E872/2002/FRA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/MD120-12/1987/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.1/7EK/Hawaii/1971/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/CHDC4073/1984/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/19/2001/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/97/2006/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.Pe_GII.4/Osaka/OSF78, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2012/GII.4/Groningen, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2014/GII.2/Groningen, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/New Orleans1500/2008/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/Ohio/490/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Jingzhou/2013402/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Jingzhau/2013403/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/Gaithersburg/2014/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C127/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC3967/1988/03, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4108/1987/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4871/1977/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/CHDC5291/1990/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Milwaukee009/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Miranda/NSW817L/2010/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/KL109/MY/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.14/HK74/CN/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.7/HK4/CN/1976, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/C142/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.5/C15/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GI.5/E57/UG/1975, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Randwick/NSW882J/2011/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Berowra/NSW767L/2012/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Sydney/NSW0514/2012/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hong Kong/CUHK3830/2012/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/VP1172/Shanghai/2012/CHN, Norovirus Nu/GII-4/New Taipei/CGMH61/2012/TW, Norovirus GII/Hu/HKG/2013/GII.4/CUHK-NS-141, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2002/GII.P12_GII.13/Saitama/TBD, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2001/GII.P12_GII.12/Saitama/T15, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P21_GII.21/, Kawasaki/Y0284, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P15_GII.15/Sapporo/HK299, Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P3_GI.3/Shimizu/KK2866, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P7_GII.14/Fukuoka/KK282, Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P8_GI.8/Nagoya/KY531, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SJTUH1/CHN/2014, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/variant Sydney 2012/FRA, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Hokkaido4/2006/JP, Norovirus GIV/Hu/Jp/2001/GIV.1/OCO1017023, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Beijing/53671/2007/CHN, Norovirus Hu/II.4/2200661/HK/2010, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Aichi368-14/2014, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hunter 284E/040/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Osaka/1998/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P774.Delsjo2004/Gothenburg/Sweden, Norovirus pig/GII.11/F18-10/2005/CAN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Wellington/1995/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Henry/2000/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SSCS/2005/USA, Norovirus GII/Hu/IN/2006/GII.P4_GII.4_Yerseke2006a/Pune-PC21, Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P7-587/2007/Stromstad/Sweden, Norovirus Hu/GI.2/Leuven/2003/BEL, Norovirus Hu/GII.7/NSW743L/2008/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/NF2002/USA/2002, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NF2003/USA/2003, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/1999, Norovirus Hu/GIV.1/Ahrenshoop246/DEU/2012, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Xi'an/P19/2010/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PA363/2011/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/P3/2012/Gothenburg/Sweden, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Tanger/TM687/2011/MAR, Norovirus 12-X-2/2012/GII.P22/GII.5, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kobe034/2006/JP, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Tie1001/1995/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/DenHaag015/2000/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Schiedam018/2001/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Apeldoorn023/2003/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Middelburg007/2004/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Matsudo/021071/2002/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Kaiso/030556/2003/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Awa/040354/2004/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Apeldoorn317/2007/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/Rotterdam39E/2002/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/RotterdamP2D0/2005/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Stockholm/19865/2008/SE, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/OC04062VLP/2004/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS194/2009/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.12/HS210/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GI.0/8FIIa/1968/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC5191/1974/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/N76/2010/HuZhou, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/S9c/1976/SEN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/KL45/1978/MYS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC17.5/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC9/2011/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C110/1978/GUF, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS66/2001/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.P17_GII.17/Kawasaki308, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2014/GII.P17_GII.17/Nagano8-1, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.Pe_GII.4/Osaka/DSF78, Norovirus GI/Hu/NL/2011/GI.4/Groningen, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2014/GII.4/Groningen01, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kenepuru/NZ327/2006/NZL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Rathmines/NSW287R/2007/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Turramurra/NSW892U/2009/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0389/2009/KDR, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0945/2009/KDR, Norovirus Hu/GII.12/Shelby/2009/USA, Norovirus Hu/GI.7/TCH-060/USA/2003, Norovirus Hu/GII.1/Ascension208/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.13/VAI73/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.21/Salisbury150/2011/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/1997/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Farmington Hills/2004/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Minerva/2006/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Ohio/71/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaEI065/2011/CA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SG4051-09/2009/SG, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/TCH-104/USA/2002, Norovirus Hu/GI.6/TCH-099/USA/2003, Norovirus 06-AM-11/2006/GII.4/Yerseke/2006a, Norovirus 09-BI-2/2009/GII.4/NewOrleans/2009, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PR328/2013/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.P17_GII.17/PR668/2015/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaSPI/2013/CA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C00007892/2011/UK, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/GZ2010-L96/Guangzhou/CHN/2011, Norovirus Bo/GIII.1/Aba-Z5/2002/HUN, Norovirus GI.9, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-670/HKG/2015, Norovirus GII/Hu/SI/2015/GII.17/Ljubljana1662, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-647/HKG/2015, Norovirus Hu/GII.21/CUHK-NS-609/HKG/2015, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Melbourne6623/2016/AUS, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/OH16002, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/Kawasaki194, Norovirus 16F2149_GII.2_Guangdong_CHN_2016, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-864/HKG/2016, Norovirus GII/Hu/ZAF/2012/GII.P4_GII.4/CapeTown/9772, Norovirus GII.12, Snow Mountain virus, Human calicivirus strain Melksham.

In one embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of genogroup I Norovirus, genogroup II Norovirus, genogroup III Norovirus, genogroup IV Norovirus, and genogroup V Norovirus; preferably the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of a GI.1 to GI.17 Norovirus, GII.1 to GII.24 Norovirus, GIII.1 to GIII.4 Norovirus, GIV.1 to GIV.4 Norovirus and GV.1 to GV.4 Norovirus; more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of GI.1 Norovirus and 011.4 Norovirus, even more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a GII.4 Norovirus, still more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a GII.4 CIN-1 Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney 2012 Norovirus.

In preferred embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of Norovirus GII.4-031093-USA-2003, Norovirus GII.4/Farmington Hills/HU/USA, Norovirus GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008, Norovirus GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011, Norovirus GII.4-USA-1997, Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein.

Norovirus Peptides or Proteins:

The at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one Norovirus protein. The RNA genome of Norovirus typically encodes a plurality of structural and non-structural proteins.

Translation of Norovirus RNA typically leads to a precursor protein comprising a plurality of individual viral (structural and non-structural) proteins (or precursor of these proteins) in one polypeptide chain, which is typically referred to as “polyprotein” or “precursor protein”.

In the context of the present invention, a Norovirus polyprotein typically comprises amino acid sequences that are target sites for enzymes that specifically cleave the polyprotein in order to yield fragments of the polyprotein, wherein the fragments preferably comprise an individual Norovirus protein or two or more Norovirus proteins, or a fragment or variant thereof. In the context of the present invention, the term “polyprotein” may also refer to a polypeptide chain comprising the amino acid sequences of at least two individual Norovirus proteins, or a fragment or variant thereof. Cleavage of a Norovirus polyprotein preferably occurs between individual Norovirus proteins (e.g. between the capsid protein VP1 and the capsid protein VP2, or fragments or variants thereof. An individual Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof, e.g. as obtained from a polyprotein by cleavage, is preferably referred to as “mature Norovirus protein”. In the context of the present invention, the term “mature Norovirus protein” is not limited to an individual Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof, which was generated by cleavage of a polyprotein, but also comprises an individual Norovirus protein of another origin, such as an individual Norovirus protein expressed recombinantly from an artificial nucleic acid. Preferably, a mature Norovirus protein lacks an amino acid sequence that is typically present in a corresponding amino acid sequence encoding said Norovirus protein in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein) and wherein said amino acid sequence lacking in the mature Norovirus protein preferably corresponds to an amino acid sequence, which is usually removed by cleavage during processing of a Norovirus polyprotein. For example, an amino acid sequence, which is a target site for a protease, may be present in a Norovirus polyprotein, but may be absent from a mature Norovirus protein derived from said Norovirus polyprotein.

In one embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprises at least one Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or Norovirus capsid protein VP2 and/or a fragment or a variant thereof.

In another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprises at least one Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and/or a fragment or variant thereof. In a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

In the context of the present invention, the term “Norovirus protein” may refer to any amino acid encoded by a Norovirus nucleic acid. In the context of the invention, a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or VP1 protein is preferred. For example, a “Norovirus protein” may be any polypeptide comprising or consisting of an amino acid sequence according to any one of the following amino acid sequences from Genbank, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences as provided in Table 1 (Column 2; “NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”) and Table 3 (Column 2; “NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”).

In particular, the term “Norovirus protein” as used herein comprises an individual structural or non-structural Norovirus protein. For example, a Norovirus protein in the meaning of the present invention may be a protein selected from the group consisting of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, Norovirus capsid protein VP2, and a Norovirus non-structural protein (NS), such as NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, or NS7.

In particular, the term “Norovirus protein” as used herein is a Norovirus capsid protein VP1. Further, in particular, the term “Norovirus protein” as used herein is a Norovirus capsid protein derived from a GII.4 Norovirus.

As used herein, the term “Norovirus protein” may also refer to an amino acid sequence corresponding to an individual Norovirus protein as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein). Said amino acid sequence in the polyprotein may differ from the amino acid sequence of the corresponding amino acid sequence of the respective mature Norovirus protein (i.e. after cleavage/processing the polyprotein). For example, the corresponding amino acid sequence comprised in the polyprotein may comprise amino acid residues that are removed during cleavage/processing of the polyprotein (such as a signal sequence or a target site for a protease) and that are no longer present in the respective mature Norovirus protein. In the context of the present invention, the term “Norovirus protein” comprises both, the precursor amino acid sequence comprised in a Norovirus polyprotein (i.e. as part of a polypeptide chain optionally further comprising other viral proteins) as well as the respective mature individual Norovirus protein. For example, the term “Norovirus capsid protein VP1” as used herein may refer to an amino acid sequence in a Norovirus polyprotein corresponding to the precursor sequence of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 (comprising, for example, a (C-terminal) signal sequence) as present in a Norovirus polyprotein as well as to a mature (separate) Norovirus capsid protein VP1 (no longer comprising, for example, a (C-terminal) signal sequence).

Where reference is made to amino acid residues and their position in a Norovirus protein or in a Norovirus polyprotein, any numbering used herein—unless stated otherwise—relates to the position of the respective amino acid residue in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein), wherein position “1” corresponds to the first amino acid residue, i.e. the amino acid residue at the N-terminus of a Norovirus polyprotein. More preferably, the numbering with regard to amino acid residues refers to the respective position of an amino acid residue in a Norovirus polyprotein, which is preferably derived from a Norovirus strain selected from the group consisting of Genogroup II or Genogroup I (abbreviated as GII, or GI, respectively), more preferably from the group consisting of Genogroup II genotype 4 (abbreviated as GII.4) or Genogroup I genotype 1 (abbreviated as GII.4 and GI.1), or even more preferably the strain is selected from strain Norovirus strain GII.4 CIN-1 or CIN-002.

Preferred Norovirus protein in the context of the invention may be any polypeptide comprising or consisting of an amino acid sequence according to any one of the following amino acid sequences from Genbank, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences: ACO55068, AFS33552, AFS33555, AFX71665, BAI49904, BAI49914, BAS02083, CRL46958, CRL46973, ADB27027, AGI96397, AGX01095, AGX01098, AKI30060, AGL98413, ACT76145, ACT76148, ACT76151, AED02034, AEX10549, AFJ21448, AFN06726, AFN06727, AFN06731, AFN06732, AFN06733, AFN06735, AFV08771, AFV08777, AFV08795, AFX95940, AFJ99552, AGK25912, AID68581, AII73717, AII73735, AII73741, AII73759, AII73765, AII73780, AII73783, AIS40019, AIY27747, BAG70437, BAU16306 ACY00615, ADK47170, BAQ20801, AAZ31376, ABI97981, ABW74128, ACC69023, ACL27297, ACL27298, ACL27299, ACL31322, ACN32770, ACU156258, ACX85810, AFB18010, AFB18013, AFK75854, AFN61315, AFQ00511, AHC12655, AHZ12912, AIC32559, AID51489, BAF45861, BAF74508, BAF74509, BAF74512, BAF74517, BAF74521, BAF95499, BAF95501, BAF95505, BAG55289, BAG68713, BAG68801, BAH30707, BAL40873, ADB27914, ADT70684, AFJ38516, AFJ38519, AFW15943, AGE99599, AGE99812, AGT17839, AFX71669, AGE99607, AH159166, BAR42290, BAR63722, BAS02084, CRL46953, CRL46962, ABQ63283, ACW19927, ADQ43783, ADV37805, ADV37919, AEI83469, AEQ77282, AFA55174, AFC89656, AFC89665, AFJ04707, AFJ04708, AFJ04709, AFP89593, AFU55731, AFU92710, AGO64038, AGT62521, AJZ77004, AJZ77015, AKE31861, ALD09618, ALT54494, CCX28619, AGC96535, ABY67257, AHA91656, KT315718, KT591501, KT315706, KR921940, KX767083, LC153121, LC175468, KY485125, KU555841, KP784696, KP064099, U70059, X81879.

Preferred examples of Noroviruses which may be used for providing the nucleic acid molecules of the invention may include Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003, Norovirus GII.4/Farmington Hills/2002/USA, Norovirus GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008, Norovirus GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011, Norovirus GII.4-USA-1997, Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968.

Further Preferred examples of Noroviruses which may be used for providing the nucleic acid molecules of the invention may include Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Dijon/E872/2002/FRA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/MD120-12/1987/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.1/7EK/Hawaii/1971/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/CHDC4073/1984/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/19/2001/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/67/2006/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.PeGII.4/Osaka/OSF78, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2012/GII.4/Groningen, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2014/GII.2/Groningen, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/New Orleans1500/2008/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/Ohio/490/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Jingzhou/2013402/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Jingzhou/2013403/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/Gaithersburg/2014/113, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C127/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC3967/1988/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4108/1987/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4871/1977/113, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/CHDC5261/1990/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Milwaukee009/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Miranda/NSW817L/2010/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/KL109/MY/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.14/HK74/CN/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.7/HK4/CN/1976, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/C142/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GII.5/C15/GF/1978, Norovirus Hu/GI.5/E57/110/1975, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Randwick/NSW882J/2011/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Berowra/NSW767L/2012/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Sydney/NSW0514/2012/AU, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hong Kang/CUHK3630/2012/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/VP1172/Shanghai/2012/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/New Taipei/CGMH61/2012/TW, Norovirus GII/Hu/HKG/2013/GII.4/CUHK-NS-141, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2002/GII.P12_GII.13/Saitama/T80, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2001/GII.P12_GII.12/Saitama/T15, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P21_GII.21/, Kawasaki/YO284, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P15_GII.15/Sapporo/HK299, Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P3_GI.3/Shimizu/KK2866, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P7_GII.14/Fukuoka/KK282, Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P8_GI.8/Nagoya/KY531, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SJTLIH1/CHN/2014, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/variant Sydney 2012/FRA, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Hokkaido4/2006/JP, Norovirus GIV/Hu/Jp/2001/GIV.1/OC01017023, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Beijing/53671/2007/CHN, Norovirus Hu/II.4/2200661/HK/2010, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Aichi368-14/2014, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hunter 284E/040/All, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Osaka/1998/JPN, Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P774.Delsjo2004/Gothenburg/Sweden, Norovirus pig/GII.11/F18-10/2005/CAN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Wellington/1995/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Henry/2000/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SSCS/2005/USA, Norovirus GII/Hu/IN/2006/GII.P4_GII.4_Yerseke2006a/Pune-PC21, Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P7-587/2007/Stromstad/Sweden, Narovirus Hu/GI.2/Leuven/2003/BEL, Norovirus Hu/GII.7/NSW743L/2008/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/NF2002/USA/2002, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NF2003/USA/2003, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/1999, Norovirus Hu/GIV.1/Ahrenshoop246/DEU/2012, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Xi'an/P19/2010/CHN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PA363/2011/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/P3/2012/Gothenburg/Sweden, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Tanger/TM987/2011/MAR, Norovirus 12-X-2/2012/GII.P22/GII.5, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kobe034/2009/JP, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Tiel001/1995/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/DenHaag015/2000/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Schiedam018/2001/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Apeldoorn023/2003/NL, Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Middelburg007/2004/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Matsuda/021071/2002/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Kaiso/030559/2003/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Awa/040354/2004/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Apeldoorn317/2007/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.2/Rotterdam39E/2002/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/RotterdamP200/2005/NL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Stockholm/19865/2008/SE, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/OC04092VLP/2004/JP, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS194/2009/US, Norovirus Hu/GII.12/HS210/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GI.1/8FIIa/1998/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC5191/1974/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/N76/2010/HuZhou, Norovirus Hu/GII.9/39c/1976/SEN, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/KL45/1978/MYS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC17.5/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC9/2011/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C110/1978/GUF, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS66/2001/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.P17_GII.17/Kawasaki308, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2014/GII.P17_GII.17/Nagano8-1, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.Pe_GII.4/Dsaka/OSF78, Norovirus GI/Hu/NL/2011/GI.4/Groningen, Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2014/GII.4/Groningen01, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kenepuru/NZ327/2006/NZL, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Rathmines/NSW287R/2007/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Turramurra/NSW892U/2009/AUS, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0389/2009/KOR, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0945/2009/KOR, Norovirus Hu/GII.12/Shelby/2009/USA, Norovirus Hu/GI.7/TCH-060/USA/2003, Norovirus Hu/GII.1/Ascension208/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.13/VA173/2010/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.21/Salisbury150/2011/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/1997/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Farmington Hills/2004/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Minerva/2009/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Ohio/71/2012/USA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaEl095/2011/CA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SG4051-09/2009/SG, Norovirus Hu/GII.3/TCH-104/USA/2002, Norovirus Hu/GINTCH-099/USA/2003, Norovirus 06-AM-11/2009/GII.4/Yerseke/2006a, Norovirus 09-BI-2/2009/GII.4/NewOrleans/2009, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PR328/2013/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.P17_GII.17/PR668/2015/ITA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaSPI/2013/CA, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C00007892/2011/UK, Norovirus Hu/GII.6/GZ2010-L96/Guangzhou/CHN/2011, Norovirus Bo/GIII.1/Aba-Z5/2002/HUN, Norovirus GI.9, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-670/HKG/2015, Norovirus GII/Hu/SI/2015/GII.17/Ljubljana1662, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-947/HKG/2015, Norovirus Hu/GII.21/CUHK-NS-909/HKG/2015, Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Melbourne6623/2016/AUS, Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/OH16002, Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/Kawasaki194, Norovirus 16F2149_GII.2_Guangdong_CHN_2016, Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CHK-NS-864/HKG/2016, Norovirus GII/Hu/ZAF/2012/GII.P4_GII.4/CapeTown/9772, Norovirus GII.12, Snow Mountain virus, Human calicivirus strain Melksham.

Preferred examples of Noroviruses which may be used for providing the nucleic acid molecules of the invention are provided in Table 1 (Column 6 “Strain/Isolate”). Even more preferred examples of Noroviruses which may be used for providing the nucleic acid molecules of the invention are provided in Table 3 (Column 1“Strain/Isolate”).

The nucleic acid and corresponding amino acid sequences of each are all incorporated by reference in their entirety. In same embodiments, a cryptogram can be used for identification purposes and is organized: host species from which the virus was isolated/genus abbreviation/species abbreviation/strain name/year of occurrence/country of origin. (Green et al., Human Caliciviruses, in Fields Virology Vol. 1 841-874 (Knipe and Howley, editors-in-chief, 4th ed., Lippincott Williams 6. Wilkins 2000). Use of a combination of Norovirus genogroups such as a genogroup I.1 (Norwalk virus) and 11.4 (f.e. Houston virus) or other commonly circulating strains, or synthetic constructs representing combinations or portions thereof are preferred in some embodiments. New strains of Noroviruses are routinely identified (Centers for Disease Control, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 56(33):842-846 (2007)) and consensus sequences of two or more viral strains may also be used to express Norovirus antigens.

In some embodiments described herein, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid may consist of an individual Norovirus protein, the amino acid sequence of which does typically not comprise an N-terminal methionine residue. It is thus understood that the phrase “polypeptide consisting of Norovirus protein . . . ” relates to a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of said Norovirus protein and—if the amino acid sequence of the respective Norovirus protein does not comprise such an N-terminal methionine residue—an N-terminal methionine residue.

Norovirus Sequences:

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising or consisting of at least one Norovirus protein as described herein, wherein the at least one Norovirus protein comprises an amino acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

In one embodiment, the term “sequence”, “sequence of the invention”, “artificial nucleic acid” or “artificial nucleic acid of the invention” refers to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-39590, 39713-39746.

In a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the invention comprises at least one encoded polypeptide comprising

-   -   (i) at least one of the amino acid sequences according to any         one of SEEM NOs: 1-4410; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the amino acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%,         67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         amino acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-4410; and/or     -   (iii) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-39690, 39713-39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

In another embodiment the artificial nucleic acid of the invention comprises at least one coding region comprising

-   -   (i) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39990, 39713-39749; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 91%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 95%, 66%,         97%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         nucleic acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NOs:         4411-39890, 39713-39748; and/or     -   (iii) at least one complement of the nucleic acid sequences         which are capable of hybridizing with a nucleic acid sequence         comprising a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690,         39713-39748, and/or to a nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide         having a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, and/or     -   (iv) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-39890, 39713-39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

In the context of the present invention a fragment of a protein or a variant thereof encoded by the at least one coding sequence of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention may typically comprise an amino acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 80%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 88%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 99%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with an amino acid sequence of the respective naturally occurring full-length protein or a variant thereof, preferably as disclosed in Table 1, column 1, column 2 or column 3, more preferably as disclosed in Table 3, column 1, column 2, column 3.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the artificial nucleic acid sequence according to the invention preferably encodes Norovirus proteins selected from the proteins provided in Table 1, or a fragment or variant thereof. Any Norovirus protein provided in Table 1, or any a fragment or variant thereof, can cause an immune response when administered to an individual. Therefore, all Norovirus proteins provided in Table 1 and Table 3 can be considered as preferred Norovirus antigens in the context of the present invention.

It is further preferred that the at least one coding sequence of the artificial nucleic acid sequence of the present invention encodes a Norovirus protein or peptide, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the Norovirus protein or peptide is an antigen selected from the antigens listed in Table 1. Therein, each row (row 1-row 4410) corresponds to a Norovirus protein or antigen as identified by the respective gene name (first column, column 1 “Name”) and the database accession number of the corresponding protein (second column, column 2 “NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”). The third column, column 3 (“A”) in Table 1 indicates the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the respective amino acid sequence as provided herein. The SEQ ID Hs corresponding to the nucleic acid sequence of the wild type nucleic acid sequence encoding the Norovirus protein or peptide is indicated in the fourth column, column 4 (“B”). The fifth column, column 5 (“C”) provides the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to modified nucleic acid sequences of the nucleic acid sequences as described herein that encode the Norovirus protein or peptide preferably having the amino acid sequence as defined by the SEQ ID NOs indicated in the third column (“A”) or by the database entry indicated in the second column (“NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”).

In this context it is further preferred that the at least one coding sequence of the artificial nucleic acid sequence of the present invention encodes at least one Norovirus protein or peptide which is derived from Norovirus polyprotein, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the Norovirus polyprotein is selected from the Norovirus polyprotein amino acid sequences listed in Table 1. Therein, each row corresponds to a Norovirus polyprotein as identified by the respective gene name (first column “Name”, derived from NCBI or Genbank) and the database accession number of the corresponding protein (second column “NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”). The third column (“A”) in Table 1 indicates the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the respective amino acid sequence as provided herein. The SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the nucleic acid sequence of the wild type nucleic acid encoding the Norovirus protein or peptide is indicated in the fourth column (“B”). The fifth column (“C”) provides the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to modified nucleic acid sequences of the nucleic acids as described herein that encode the Norovirus protein or peptide preferably having the amino acid sequence as defined by the SEQ ID NOs indicated in the third column (“A”) or by the database entry indicated in the second column (“NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”).

Particularly preferred in this context are the Norovirus polyprotein and nucleic acid sequences according to SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39746.

In specific embodiments the Norovirus protein or peptide is derived from a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 according to SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410.

In this context it is further preferred that the at least one coding sequence of the artificial nucleic acid sequence of the present invention encodes at least one Norovirus protein or peptide which is derived from Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the Norovirus capsid protein VP1 is selected from the Norovirus capsid protein VP1 amino acid sequences listed in Table 1. Therein, each row corresponds to a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as identified by the respective gene name (first column “Name”) and the database accession number of the corresponding protein (second column “NCBI or Genbank Accession No”). The third column (“A”) in Table 1 indicates the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the respective amino acid sequence as provided herein. The SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the nucleic acid sequence of the wild type RNA encoding the Norovirus antigen is indicated in the fourth column (“B”). The fifth column (“C”) provides the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to modified nucleic acid sequences of the RNAs as described herein that encode the Norovirus antigen preferably having the amino acid sequence as defined by the SEQ ID NOs indicated in the third column (“A”) or by the database entry indicated in the second column (“NCBI or Genbank Accession No”).

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one coding sequence encoding at least one Norovirus protein or peptide as described herein. Preferably, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of a coding sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746, or a homolog, fragment or variant of any of these sequences (see Table 1, column “B” and “C”).

Accordingly, in another embodiment, a nucleic acid molecule of the invention is at least 15, 20, 25 or 30 nucleotides in length. Preferably, it hybridizes under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide sequence of the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or used in the methods of the present invention. The nucleic acid molecule is preferably at least 20, 30, 50, 100, 250 or more nucleotides in length.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention thus provides artificial nucleic acid sequences comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence encoding Norovirus capsid protein VP1 comprises or consists any one of the nucleic acid sequences defined in Table 1, preferably in the fourth or fifth column (column “B” or “C”, respectively) of Table 1, or a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

In particularly preferred embodiments the nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists of at least one coding sequence encoding Norovirus capsid protein VP1 according to SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746.

In these context it is particularly preferred that the nucleic acid sequence according to the invention comprises at least one coding sequence encoding Norovirus capsid protein VP1 comprising a nucleic acid sequence selected from sequences being identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 88%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the nucleic acid sequences as disclosed in Table 1, preferably in the fourth or fifth column (column “B” or “C”, respectively) of Table 1 or a fragment or variant thereof.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an nucleic acid sequence as defined herein comprising at least one coding sequence encoding at least one Norovirus peptide or protein derived from Norovirus capsid protein VP1, wherein the coding sequence comprises or consists of any one of the (modified) nucleic acid sequences defined in the Column “C” of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one coding sequence encoding at least one Norovirus protein or peptide as described herein, wherein the at least one Norovirus protein comprises an amino acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a homolog, fragment or variant of any of these sequences (see Table 1, third column, column “A”). According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one coding sequence encoding at least one protein or peptide derived from a Norovirus, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the Norovirus protein or peptide preferably comprises or consists of any one of the amino acid sequences defined in the third column (column “A”) of Table 1, or a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences. In other words, the at least one coding sequence preferably encodes a Norovirus protein comprising or consisting of an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410.

In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the nucleic acid sequence according to the invention comprises or consists of an nucleic acid sequence identical to or having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with any one of the (G/C modified) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column (column “C”) of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the nucleic acid sequence according to the invention comprises or consists of an nucleic acid sequence identical to or having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with any one of the (human codon usage adapted) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column (column “C”) of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA sequence according to the invention comprises or consists of an nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 80% with any one of the (human codon usage adapted) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column (column “C”) of Tables 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an nucleic acid sequence as defined herein comprising at least one coding sequence encoding at least one Norovirus peptide or protein derived from Norovirus capsid protein VP1, wherein the coding sequence comprises or consists of any one of the (human codon usage adapted) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column (column “C”) of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

Norovirus peptide or protein derived from Norovirus capsid protein VP1, wherein the coding sequence comprises or consists of any one of the (codon optimized) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column (column “C”) of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

Accordingly, in another embodiment, a nucleic acid molecule of the invention is at least 15, 20, 25 or 30 nucleotides in length. Preferably, it hybridizes under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide sequence of the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention or used in the methods of the present invention, e.g. comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746. The nucleic acid molecule is preferably at least 20, 30, 50, 100, 250 or more nucleotides in length.

In one embodiment of the invention, a complement sequence derived from SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746, or a fragment or variant thereof is used in the hybridization. Preferably, a complement of a nucleic acid molecule of the invention that hybridizes under stringent conditions to a sequence shown in SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39749 correspond to a naturally-occurring nucleic acid molecule of the invention. As used herein, a “naturally-occurring” nucleic acid molecule refers to an RNA or DNA molecule having a nucleotide sequence that occurs in nature (e.g., encodes a natural protein).

In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the nucleic acid sequence according to the invention comprises or consists of an nucleic acid sequence identical to or having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with any one of the (codon optimized) RNA sequences defined in the fifth column 5 (column “C”) of Table 1, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

In the context of the present invention, a “fragment” of an amino acid sequence, such as a polypeptide or a protein, e.g. the at least one Norovirus protein as described herein, may typically comprise a sequence of a protein or peptide as defined herein, which is, with regard to its amino acid sequence (or the respective coding nucleic acid molecule), N-terminally and/or C-terminally truncated compared to the amino acid sequence of the original (native) protein (or respective coding nucleic acid molecule). Such truncation may thus occur either on the amino acid level or correspondingly on the nucleic acid level. A sequence identity with respect to such a fragment as defined herein may therefore preferably refer to the entire protein or peptide as defined herein or to the entire (coding) nucleic acid molecule of such a protein or peptide.

Preferably, a fragment of an amino acid sequence comprises or consists of a continuous stretch of amino acid residues corresponding to a continuous stretch of amino acid residues in the protein the fragment is derived from, which represents at least 5%, 10%, 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, even more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably at least 70%, and most preferably at least 80% of the total (i.e. full-length) protein, from which the fragment is derived.

In the context of the present invention, a fragment of a protein or of a peptide may furthermore comprise a sequence of a protein or peptide as defined herein, which has a length of for example at least 5 amino acids, preferably a length of at least 6 amino acids, preferably at least 7 amino acids, more preferably at least 8 amino acids, even more preferably at least 9 amino acids; even more preferably at least 10 amino acids; even more preferably at least 11 amino acids; even more preferably at least 12 amino acids; even more preferably at least 13 amino acids; even more preferably at least 14 amino acids; even more preferably at least 15 amino acids; even more preferably at least 16 amino acids; even more preferably at least 17 amino acids; even more preferably at least 18 amino acids; even more preferably at least 19 amino acids; even more preferably at least 20 amino acids; even more preferably at least 25 amino acids; even more preferably at least 30 amino acids; even more preferably at least 35 amino acids; even more preferably at least 50 amino acids; or most preferably at least 100 amino acids. For example such fragment may have a length of about 6 to about 20 or even more amino acids, e.g. fragments as processed and presented by MHC class 1 molecules, preferably having a length of about 8 to about 10 amino acids, e.g. 8, 9, or 10, (or even 6, 7, 11, or 12 amino acids), or fragments as processed and presented by MHC class II molecules, preferably having a length of about 13 or more amino acids, e.g. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or even mare amino acids, wherein these fragments may be selected from any part of the amino acid sequence. These fragments are typically recognized by T-cells in form of a complex consisting of the peptide fragment and an MHC molecule, i.e. the fragments are typically not recognized in their native form. Fragments of proteins or peptides may comprise at least one epitope of those proteins or peptides. Furthermore also domains of a protein, like the extracellular domain, the intracellular domain or the transmembrane domain and shortened or truncated versions of a protein may be understood to comprise a fragment of a protein.

As used herein, a “variant” of a protein or a peptide may be generated, having an amino acid sequence, which differs from the original sequence in one or more mutation(s), such as one or more substituted, inserted and/or deleted amino acid(s). Preferably, these fragments and/or variants have the same biological function or specific activity compared to the full-length native protein, e.g. its specific antigenic property. “Variants” of proteins or peptides as defined in the context of the present invention may comprise conservative amino acid substitution(s) compared to their native, i.e. non-mutated physiological, sequence. Those amino acid sequences as well as their encoding nucleotide sequences in particular fall under the term variants as defined herein. Substitutions in which amino acids, which originate from the same class, are exchanged for one another are called conservative substitutions. In particular, these are amino acids having aliphatic side chains, positively or negatively charged side chains, aromatic groups in the side chains or amino acids, the side chains of which can enter into hydrogen bridges, e.g. side chains which have a hydroxyl function. This means that e.g. an amino acid having a polar side chain is replaced by another amino acid having a likewise polar side chain, or, for example, an amino acid characterized by a hydrophobic side chain is substituted by another amino acid having a likewise hydrophobic side chain (e.g. serine (threonine) by threonine (serine) or leucine (isoleucine) by isoleucine (leucine)). Insertions and substitutions are possible, in particular, at those sequence positions which cause no modification to the three-dimensional structure or do not affect the binding region. Modifications to a three-dimensional structure by insertion(s) or deletion(s) can easily be determined e.g. using CD spectra (circular dichroism spectra) (urry, 1985, Absorption, Circular Dichroism and ORD of Polypeptides, in: Modern Physical Methods in Biochemistry, Neuberger et al. (ed.), Elsevier, Amsterdam).

In the context of the present invention, a “variant” of a protein or peptide may have at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 92%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% amino acid identity over a stretch of at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 50, at least 75 or at least 100 amino acids of such protein or peptide. More preferably, a “variant” of a protein or peptide as used herein is at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% identical to the protein or peptide, from which the variant is derived.

Alternatively or additionally, a protein of the invention, a capsid protein, a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or a Norovirus capsid protein VP2 as defined herein refers to any polypeptide being identical or having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% or more amino acid sequence identity to the protein of the invention, a capsid protein, a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or a Norovirus capsid protein VP2 as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or to any of the full length polypeptide sequences given in SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410.

Furthermore, variants of proteins or peptides as defined herein, which may be encoded by a nucleic acid, may also comprise those sequences, wherein nucleotides of the encoding nucleic acid sequence are exchanged according to the degeneration of the genetic code, without leading to an alteration of the respective amino acid sequence of the protein or peptide, i.e. the amino acid sequence or at least part thereof may not differ from the original sequence in one or more mutation(s) within the above meaning.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

As used herein, a “fragment” of a nucleic acid sequence comprises or consists of a continuous stretch of nucleotides corresponding to a continuous stretch of nucleotides in the full-length nucleic acid sequence which is the basis for the nucleic acid sequence of the fragment, which represents at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, even more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the full-length nucleic acid sequence. Such a fragment, in the sense of the present invention, is preferably a functional fragment of the full-length nucleic acid sequence.

In the context of the present invention, the phrase “variant of a nucleic acid sequence” typically relates to a variant of a nucleic acid sequence, which forms the basis of a nucleic acid sequence. For example, a variant nucleic acid sequence may exhibit one or more nucleotide deletions, insertions, additions and/or substitutions compared to the nucleic acid sequence, from which the variant is derived. Preferably, a variant of a nucleic acid sequence is at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% identical to the nucleic acid sequence the variant is derived from. Preferably, the variant is a functional variant. A “variant” of a nucleic acid sequence may have at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% nucleotide identity over a stretch of at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 50, at least 75 or at least 100 nucleotides of such nucleic acid sequence.

Alternatively or additionally, a nucleic acid sequence encoding a protein of the invention, a capsid protein, a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or a Norovirus capsid protein VP2 as defined herein refers to any nucleic acid sequence having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%. 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% or more sequence identity to the nucleic acid sequence as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746, or to any of the full length polypeptide sequences given in SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410.

Preferably, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof. More preferably, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

Alternatively or additionally, a nucleic acid sequence encoding a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as defined herein refers to any nucleic acid sequence being identical or having in increasing order of preference at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%. 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%. 98%, or 99% or more sequence identity to the full-length nucleic acid sequence as represented by SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746.

In certain embodiments, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of a fragment of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or a variant of such a fragment. Preferably, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of a C-terminal fragment of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant of such a fragment. In another embodiment, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of an N-terminal fragment of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant of such a fragment.

Preferably, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of a fragment, preferably a C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein) before cleavage. In the context of the present invention, the phrase “Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage” typically refers to a continuous amino acid sequence beginning at the N-terminus of a Norovirus polyprotein (before cleavage) and comprising the amino acid residue immediately N-terminal of the first amino acid residue of a precursor of Norovirus pr protein as present in the Norovirus polyprotein. In other words, the phrase “Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage” may refer to a part of a Norovirus polyprotein corresponding to Norovirus capsid protein VP1 comprising a C-terminal fragment, preferably a C-terminal signal sequence, which is typically not present in mature Norovirus protein VP1. For example, a ‘Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage’ as used herein may comprise an amino acid sequence derived from an amino acid sequence corresponding to amino acid residues 1 to 122 of a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage. According to a preferred embodiment, a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage comprises an amino acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

Hence, a “C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein) before cleavage” preferably comprises an amino acid sequence corresponding to a continuous amino acid sequence, which is located immediately N-terminal of Norovirus pr protein in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, or to a fragment or variant of said amino acid sequence. Preferably, the C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein) before cleavage comprises or consists of at least 3, 4, 5, 8, 7, 8, 9, or, most preferably, at least 10 amino acid residues. Alternatively, the C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (precursor protein) before cleavage may consist of 3 to 40, 3 to 30, 3 to 20, 5 to 20 or 10 to 20 amino acid residues.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, or a fragment or variant thereof.

As used herein, the term “signal sequence” preferably refers to an amino acid sequence, which is involved in the targeting of a protein, e.g. a Norovirus protein, to a cellular compartment, preferably a membrane, more preferably a membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A signal sequence in the context of the present invention preferably comprises from 3 to 40, 3 to 30, 3 to 20, 5 to 20 or 10 to 20 amino acid residues. Such a signal sequence may be present, for example, in a Norovirus polyprotein and may be removed during processing of said polyprotein. A signal sequence is preferably no longer present in a mature Norovirus protein. For example, Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein typically comprises a C-terminal signal sequence, corresponding to the amino acid sequence immediately N-terminal of Norovirus pr protein (e.g. amino acid residues 105 to 122 in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage). That signal sequence is involved in targeting Norovirus capsid protein VP1 to the ER membrane and is typically removed in order to yield mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, which no longer comprises said C-terminal fragment comprising a signal sequence.

Preferably, the amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, or a fragment or variant thereof, comprises at least 3, 4, 5, 8, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 17, 18, 19 or at least 20 amino acid residues. Alternatively, the amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, or a fragment or variant thereof may consist of 3 to 40, 3 to 30, 3 to 20, 5 to 20 or 10 to 20 amino acid residues. Most preferably, the amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, or a fragment or variant thereof consists of from 3 to 20 amino acid residues.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, which comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence that is bound by signal recognition particle (SRP). More preferably, the at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence that is recognized by signal peptide peptidase (SPP), by a viral protease and/or by furin or a furin-like protease. Most preferably, the at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence comprises an amino acid sequence that is recognized by a viral protease comprising one or more of a Norovirus non-structural protein selected from the group consisting of NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, and NS7.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence of a secretory protein or from a signal sequence of a membrane protein. More preferably, the at least one amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence, preferably derived from a signal sequence of a membrane protein, targets the at least one encoded protein to a cellular compartment, preferably to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), more preferably to the ER membrane.

It is further preferred that the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence corresponding to a signal sequence from a Norovirus protein, preferably from Norovirus capsid protein VP1, more preferably from Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, or a fragment or variant of any of these.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence corresponding to a signal sequence from Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the signal sequence is preferably derived from a C-terminal fragment of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, preferably as described herein.

According to another preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of a fragment, preferably a C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of a mature Norovirus protein, preferably of a mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1. In this context, it is preferred that the mature Norovirus protein is a mature Norovirus protein as defined herein.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of a fragment, preferably a C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, wherein the mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1 does preferably not comprise a C-terminal signal sequence as described herein with respect to a Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus polyprotein (before cleavage). More preferably, the mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1 comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a fragment or variant thereof.

Preferably, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of a C-terminal fragment, preferably as defined herein, or a variant of such a fragment, of mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1.

Preferably, the C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1 comprises or consists of at least 3, 4, 5, 8, 7, 8, 9, or, most preferably, at least 10 amino acid residues. Alternatively, the C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1 may comprise or consist of 3 to 40, 3 to 30, 3 to 20, 3 to 10, 5 to 20 or 10 to 20 amino acid residues.

According to another embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of an amino acid sequence derived from a

-   -   a) a C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of a         mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, preferably as defined         herein     -   and     -   b) a C-terminal fragment, or a variant of such a fragment, of         Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in a Norovirus         polyprotein (precursor protein) before cleavage, preferably as         defined herein; or a signal sequence, or a fragment or variant         thereof, preferably as defined herein.

Therein, the amino acid sequence according to a) may be in continuation with the amino acid sequence according to b), wherein the sequences may be positioned relative to each other in any manner. Alternatively, the amino acid sequences according to a) and b) may be separated in the at least one encoded protein by another amino acid sequence. Most preferably, the amino acid sequence according to a) is located N-terminally with respect to b).

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one amino acid sequence corresponding to a fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), or a variant of such a fragment.

As used herein, the term “fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2)” preferably relates to a continuous amino acid sequence derived from Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), or to a fragment or variant of said continuous amino acid sequence.

Preferably, the fragment, or variant thereof, of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) comprises or consists of at least 3, 4, 5, 8, 7, 8, 9, or, most preferably, at least 10 amino acid residues. Alternatively, the fragment, or variant thereof, of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) may comprise or consist of 3 to 40, 3 to 30, 3 to 20, 3 to 10, 5 to 20 or 10 to 20 amino acid residues. Most preferably, the fragment, or variant thereof, of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) comprises or consists of from 3 to 20 amino acid residues.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of at least one amino acid sequence corresponding to an N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), or a variant of said fragment.

In the context of the present invention, the term “N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2)” relates to a continuous amino acid sequence derived from the N-terminus of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2). More preferably, the N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) comprises or consists of from 3 to 20 amino acid residues. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises an N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), wherein the N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) is a continuous amino acid sequence comprising or consisting of 3 to 20 amino acid residues corresponding to a continuous amino acid sequence of 3 to 20 amino acid residues in the first 20 amino acid residues (counting from the N-terminus) of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), or a variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises or consists of an N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), wherein the N-terminal fragment of Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) is a continuous amino acid sequence comprising or consisting of 3 to 20 amino acid residues corresponding to a continuous amino acid sequence of 3 to 20 amino acid residues in the first 20 amino acid residues (counting from the N-terminus) of a mature Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2), or a variant thereof. Therein, the first 20 amino acid residues of a mature Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/2) preferably comprise or consist of the N-terminus itself (i.e. the amino acid residue at the N-terminus) and the 19 following amino acid residues.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises a first Norovirus protein, which is preferably a Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment or variant thereof, and further comprises at least one second or further Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the at least one second or further Norovirus protein, or the fragment or variant thereof, is distinct from the first Norovirus protein, or the fragment or variant thereof.

In that embodiment, the first Norovirus protein is preferably selected from the group consisting of Norovirus NS1/NS2, NS32A, NS428, NS53, NS64A, NS4B or NS75, or a fragment or variant thereof. Preferably, the second or further Norovirus protein is selected from the group consisting of Norovirus capsid protein VP1, Norovirus capsid protein VP2 and a Norovirus non-structural protein, preferably Norovirus NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, or NS7, or a fragment or variant thereof.

More preferably, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and/or VP2, or a fragment or variant thereof, and further comprises at least one of the following:

-   -   a) an amino acid sequence corresponding to a C-terminal         fragment, or a variant thereof, of mature Norovirus capsid         protein VP1, preferably as described herein;     -   b) an amino acid sequence corresponding to a C-terminal         fragment, or a variant thereof, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1         as present in Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, preferably         as described herein;     -   c) an amino acid sequence corresponding to an N-terminal         fragment, or a variant thereof, of Norovirus non-structural         protein 1 (NS1/NS2), preferably as described herein; and/or     -   d) an amino acid corresponding to a fragment of Norovirus         NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, or NS7.

In a further embodiment, the at least one polypeptide encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of, preferably in this order from N-terminus to C-terminus, Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof,

and Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1/NS2), or a fragment or variant thereof.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid is monocistronic, bicistronic or multicistronic.

Preferably, the inventive artificial nucleic acid is monocistronic. In that embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises one coding region, wherein the coding region encodes a polypeptide comprising at least two different Norovirus proteins, preferably as defined herein, or a fragment or variant thereof.

Alternatively, the inventive artificial nucleic acid can be bi- or multicistronic and comprises at least two coding regions, wherein the at least two coding regions encode at least two polypeptides, wherein each of the at least two polypeptides comprises at least one different Norovirus protein, preferably as described herein, or a fragment or variant of any one of these proteins. For example, the inventive artificial nucleic acid may comprise two coding regions, wherein the first coding region encodes a first polypeptide comprising a first Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof, and wherein the second coding region encodes a second polypeptide comprising a second Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the first and second Norovirus proteins or a fragment or variant thereof are distinct from each other.

The inventive artificial nucleic acid may be provided as DNA or as RNA, preferably an RNA as defined herein. More preferably, the inventive artificial nucleic acid is an artificial mRNA.

The inventive artificial nucleic acid may further be single stranded or double stranded. When provided as a double stranded nucleic acid, the inventive artificial nucleic acid preferably comprises a sense and a corresponding antisense strand.

Preferably, the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein typically comprises a length of about 50 to about 20000, or 100 to about 20000 nucleotides, preferably of about 250 to about 20000 nucleotides, more preferably of about 500 to about 10000, even more preferably of about 500 to about 5000.

Nucleic Acid Modifications:

According to one embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein, may be in the form of a modified nucleic acid, preferably a modified mRNA, wherein any modification, as defined herein, may be introduced into the inventive artificial nucleic acid. Modifications as defined herein preferably lead to a stabilized artificial nucleic acid, preferably a stabilized artificial RNA, of the present invention.

According to one embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, may thus be provided as a “stabilized nucleic acid”, preferably as a “stabilized mRNA”, that is to say as a nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, that is essentially resistant to in vivo degradation (e.g. by an exo- or endo-nuclease). Such stabilization can be effected, for example, by a modified phosphate backbone of an artificial mRNA of the present invention. A backbone modification in connection with the present invention is a modification in which phosphates of the backbone of the nucleotides contained in the mRNA are chemically modified. Nucleotides that may be preferably used in this connection contain e.g. a phosphorothioate-modified phosphate backbone, preferably at least one of the phosphate oxygens contained in the phosphate backbone being replaced by a sulfur atom. Stabilized artificial nucleic acids, preferably mRNAs, may further include, for example: non-ionic phosphate analogues, such as, for example, alkyl and aryl phosphonates, in which the charged phosphonate oxygen is replaced by an alkyl or aryl group, or phosphodiesters and alkylphosphotriesters, in which the charged oxygen residue is present in alkylated form. Such backbone modifications typically include, without implying any limitation, modifications from the group consisting of methylphosphonates, phosphoramidates and phosphorothioates (e.g. cytidine-5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)).

In the following, specific modifications are described, which are preferably capable of “stabilizing” the inventive artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein.

Chemical Modifications:

The terms “nucleic acid modification” as used herein may refer to chemical modifications comprising backbone modifications as well as sugar modifications or base modifications.

In this context, a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein may contain nucleotide analogues/modifications, e.g. backbone modifications, sugar modifications or base modifications. A backbone modification in connection with the present invention is a modification, in which phosphates of the backbone of the nucleotides contained in an artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein are chemically modified. A sugar modification in connection with the present invention is a chemical modification of the sugar of the nucleotides of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein. Furthermore, a base modification in connection with the present invention is a chemical modification of the base moiety of the nucleotides of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA. In this context, nucleotide analogues or modifications are preferably selected from nucleotide analogues, which are applicable for transcription and/or translation.

Sugar Modifications:

The modified nucleosides and nucleotides, which may be incorporated into a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as described herein, can be modified in the sugar moiety. For example, the 2′ hydroxyl group (OH) can be modified or replaced with a number of different “oxy” or “deoxy” substituents. Examples of “oxy”-2′ hydroxyl group modifications include, but are not limited to, alkoxy or aryloxy (—OR, e.g., R═H, alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, aralkyl, heteroaryl or sugar); polyethyleneglycols (PEG), —O(CH₂CH₂O)nCH₂CH₂OR; “locked” nucleic acids (LNA) in which the 2′ hydroxyl is connected, e.g., by a methylene bridge, to the 4′ carbon of the same ribose sugar; and amino groups (—O-amino, wherein the amino group, e.g., NRR, can be alkylamino, dialkylamino, heterocyclyl, arylamino, diarylamino, heteroarylamino, or diheteroaryl amino, ethylene diamine, polyamine) or aminoalkoxy.

“Deoxy” modifications include hydrogen, amino (e.g. NH₂; alkylamino, dialkylamino, heterocyclyl, arylamino, diaryl amino, heteroaryl amino, diheteroaryl amino, or amino acid); or the amino group can be attached to the sugar through a linker, wherein the linker comprises one or more of the atoms C, N, and O.

The sugar group can also contain one or more carbons that possess the opposite stereochemical configuration than that of the corresponding carbon in ribose. Thus, an artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, can include nucleotides containing, for instance, arabinose as the sugar.

Backbone Modifications:

The phosphate backbone may further be modified in the modified nucleosides and nucleotides, which may be incorporated into a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as described herein. The phosphate groups of the backbone can be modified by replacing one or more of the oxygen atoms with a different substituent. Further, the modified nucleosides and nucleotides can include the full replacement of an unmodified phosphate moiety with a modified phosphate as described herein. Examples of modified phosphate groups include, but are not limited to, phosphorothioate, phosphoroselenates, borano phosphates, borano phosphate esters, hydrogen phosphonates, phosphoroamidates, alkyl or aryl phosphonates and phosphotriesters. Phosphorodithioates have both non-linking oxygens replaced by sulfur. The phosphate linker can also be modified by the replacement of a linking oxygen with nitrogen (bridged phosphoroamidates), sulfur (bridged phosphorothioates) and carbon (bridged methylene-phosphonates).

Base Modifications:

The modified nucleosides and nucleotides, which may be incorporated into a modified nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as described herein can further be modified in the nucleobase moiety. Examples of nucleobases found in a nucleic acid such as RNA include, but are not limited to, adenine, guanine, cytosine and uracil. For example, the nucleosides and nucleotides described herein can be chemically modified on the major groove face. In some embodiments, the major groove chemical modifications can include an amino group, a thiol group, an alkyl group, or a halo group.

In particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention, the nucleotide analogues/modifications are selected from base modifications, which are preferably selected from 2-amino-G-chloropurineriboside-5′-triphosphate, 2-Aminopurine-riboside-5′-triphosphate; 2-aminoadenosine-5′-triphosphate, 2′-Amino-2′-deoxycytidine-triphosphate, 2-thiacytidine-5′-triphosphate, 2-thiouridine-5′-triphosphate, 2′-Fluorothymidine-5′-triphosphate, 2′-D-Methyl inosine-5′-triphosphate 4-thiouridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-aminoallylcytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-aminoallyluridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-bromocytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-bramouridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Bromo-2′-deoxycytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Bromo-2′-deoxyuridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-iodocytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Iodo-2′-deoxycytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-iodouridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Iodo-2′-deoxyuridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-methylcytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-methyluridine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Propynyl-2′-deoxycytidine-5′-triphosphate, 5-Propynyl-2′-deoxyuridine-5′-triphosphate, 6-azacytidine-5′-triphosphate, 6-azauridine-5′-triphosphate, 6-chloropurineriboside-5′-triphosphate, 7-deazaadenosine-5′-triphosphate, 7-deazaguanosine-5′-triphosphate, 8-azaadenosine-5′-triphosphate, 8-azidoadenosine-5′-triphosphate, benzimidazole-riboside-5′-triphosphate, N1-methyladenosine-5′-triphosphate, N1-methylguanosine-5′-triphosphate, N6-methyladenosine-5′-triphosphate, O6-methylguanosine-5′-triphosphate, pseudouridine-5′-triphosphate, or puromycin-5′-triphosphate, xanthosine-5′-triphosphate. Particular preference is given to nucleotides for base modifications selected from the group of base-modified nucleotides consisting of 5-methylcytidine-5′-triphosphate, 7-deazaguanosine-5′-triphosphate, 5-bromocytidine-5′-triphosphate, and pseudouridine-5′-triphosphate.

In some embodiments, modified nucleosides include pyridin-4-one ribonucleoside, 5-aza-uridine, 2-thio-5-aza-uridine, 2-thiouridine, 4-thio-pseudouridine, 2-thio-pseudouridine, 5-hydroxyuridine, 3-methyluridine, 5-carboxymethyl-uridine, 1-carboxymethyl-pseudouridine, 5-propynyl-uridine, 1-propynyl-pseudouridine, 5-taurinomethyluridine, 1-taurinomethyl-pseudouridine, 5-taurinomethyl-2-thio-uridine, 1-taurinomethyl-4-thio-uridine, 5-methyl-uridine, 1-methyl-pseudouridine, 4-thio-1-methyl-pseudouridine, 2-thio-1-methyl-pseudouridine, 1-methyl-1-deaza-pseudouridine, 2-thio-1-methyl-1-deaza-pseudouridine, dihydrouridine, dihydropseudouridine, 2-thio-dihydrouridine, 2-thio-dihydropseudouridine, 2-methoxyuridine, 2-methoxy-4-thio-uridine, 4-methoxy-pseudouridine, and 4-methoxy-2-thio-pseudouridine.

In some embodiments, modified nucleosides include 5-aza-cytidine, pseudoisocytidine, 3-methyl-cytidine, N4-acetylcytidine, 5-formylcytidine, N4-methylcytidine, 5-hydroxymethylcytidine, 1-methyl-pseudoisocytidine, pyrrolo-cytidine, pyrrolo-pseudoisocytidine, 2-thio-cytidine, 2-thio-5-methyl-cytidine, 4-thio-pseudoisocytidine, 4-thio-1-methyl-pseudoisocytidine, 4-thio-1-methyl-1-deaza-pseudoisocytidine, 1-methyl-1-deaza-pseudoisocytidine, zebularine, 5-aza-zebularine, 5-methyl-zebularine, 5-aza-2-thio-zebularine, 2-thio-zebularine, 2-methoxy-cytidine, 2-methoxy-5-methyl-cytidine, 4-methoxy-pseudoisocytidine, and 4-methoxy-1-methyl-pseudoisocytidine. In other embodiments, modified nucleosides include 2-aminopurine, 2, G-diaminopurine, 7-deaza-adenine, 7-deaza-8-aza-adenine, 7-deaza-2-aminopurine, 7-deaza-8-aza-2-aminopurine, 7-deaza-2,6-diaminopurine, 7-deaza-8-aza-2,6-diaminopurine, 1-methyladenosine, N6-methyladenosine, N6-isopentenyladenosine, N6-(cis-hydroxyisopentenyl)adenosine, 2-methylthio-N6-(cis-hydroxyisopentenyl) adenosine, N6-glycinylcarbamoyladenosine, N6-threonylcarbamoyladenosine, 2-methylthio-N6-threonyl carbamoyladenosine, N6,N6-dimethyladenosine, 7-methyladenine, 2-methylthio-adenine, and 2-methoxy-adenine.

In other embodiments, modified nucleosides include inosine, 1-methyl-inosine, wyosine, wybutosine, 7-deaza-guanosine, 7-deaza-8-aza-guanosine, 6-thio-guanosine, 6-thio-7-deaza-guanosine, 6-thio-7-deaza-8-aza-guanosine, 7-methyl-guanosine, 6-thio-7-methyl-guanosine, 7-methylinosine, 6-methoxy-guanosine, 1-methylguanosine, N2-methylguanosine, N2,N2-dimethylguanosine, 8-oxo-guanosine, 7-methyl-8-oxo-guanosine, 1-methyl-6-thio-guanosine, N2-methyl-6-thio-guanosine, and N2,N2-dimethyl-6-thio-guanosine.

In some embodiments, the nucleotide can be modified on the major groove face and can include replacing hydrogen on C-5 of uracil with a methyl group or a halo group. In specific embodiments, a modified nucleoside is 5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)-adenosine, 5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)-cytidine, 5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)-guanosine, 5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)-uridine or 5′-0-(1-thiophosphate)-pseudouridine.

In further specific embodiments, a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, may comprise nucleoside modifications selected from 6-aza-cytidine, 2-thio-cytidine, α-thio-cytidine, Pseudo-iso-cytidine, 5-aminoallyl-uridine, 5-iodo-uridine, N1-methyl-pseudouridine, 5,6-dihydrouridine, α-thio-uridine, 4-thio-uridine, 6-aza-uridine, 5-hydroxy-uridine, deoxy-thymidine, 5-methyl-uridine, Pyrrolo-cytidine, inosine, α-thio-guanosine, 6-methyl-guanosine, 5-methyl-cytdine, 8-oxo-guanosine, 7-deaza-guanosine, N1-methyl-adenosine, 2-amino-6-Chloro-purine, N6-methyl-2-amino-purine, Pseudo-iso-cytidine, 6-Chloro-purine, N6-methyl-adenosine, α-thio-adenosine, 8-azido-adenosine, 7-deaza-adenosine.

Lipid Modification:

According to a further embodiment, a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein can contain a lipid modification. Such a lipid-modified artificial nucleic acid as defined herein typically further comprises at least one linker covalently linked with that artificial nucleic acid, and at least one lipid covalently linked with the respective linker. Alternatively, the lipid-modified artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one artificial nucleic acid as defined herein and at least one (bifunctional) lipid covalently linked (without a linker) with that artificial nucleic acid. According to a third alternative, the lipid-modified artificial nucleic acid comprises an artificial nucleic acid molecule as defined herein, at least one linker covalently linked with that artificial nucleic acid, and at least one lipid covalently linked with the respective linker, and also at least one (bifunctional) lipid covalently linked (without a linker) with that artificial nucleic acid. In this context, it is particularly preferred that the lipid modification is present at the terminal ends of a linear artificial nucleic acid.

Coding Sequence Modifications:

G/C Content Modification:

According to another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention may be modified, and thus stabilized, by modifying the G/C content of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, preferably of the coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid.

Preferably, the G/C content of the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, is modified, preferably increased, compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, wherein the encoded amino acid sequence is preferably not modified compared to the amino acid sequence encoded by the corresponding wild type nucleic acid (i.e. the non-modified nucleic acid), preferably an mRNA. This modification of the inventive artificial nucleic acid, preferably of an mRNA, as described herein is based on the fact that the sequence of any mRNA region to be translated is important for efficient translation of that mRNA. Thus, the composition and the sequence of various nucleotides are important. In particular, sequences having an increased G (guanosine)/C (cytosine) content are more stable than sequences having an increased A (adenosine)/U (uracil) content. According to the invention, the codons of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, are therefore varied compared to the respective wild type mRNA, while retaining the translated amino acid sequence, such that they include an increased amount of G/C nucleotides. In respect to the fact that several codons encode one and the same amino acid (so-called degeneration of the genetic code), the most favorable codons for the stability can be determined (so-called alternative codon usage). Depending on the amino acid to be encoded by the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, there are various possibilities for modification of its sequence, compared to its wild type sequence. In the case of amino acids which are encoded by codons, which contain exclusively G or C nucleotides, no modification of the codon is necessary. Thus, the codons for Pro (CCC or CCG), Arg (CGC or CGG), Ala (GCC or GCG) and Gly (GGC or GGG) require no modification, since no A or U is present. In contrast, codons which contain A and/or U nucleotides can be modified by substitution of other codons, which code for the same amino acids but contain no A and/or U. Examples of these are: the codons for Pro can be modified from CCU or CCA to CCC or CCG; the codons for Arg can be modified from CGU or CGA or AGA or AGG to CGC or CGG; the codons for Ala can be modified from GCU or GCA to GCC or GCG; the codons for Gly can be modified from GGU or GGA to GGC or GGG. In other cases, although A or U nucleotides cannot be eliminated from the codons, it is however possible to decrease the A and U content by using codons, which contain a lower content of A and/or U nucleotides. Examples of these are: the codons for Phe can be modified from UUU to UUC; the codons for Leu can be modified from UUA, UUG, CUU or CUA to CUC or CUG the codons for Ser can be modified from UCU or UCA or AGU to UCC, UCG or AGC; the codon for Tyr can be modified from UAU to UAC; the codon for Cys can be modified from UGU to UGC; the codon for His can be modified from CAU to CAC; the codon for Gln can be modified from CAA to CAG; the codons for Ile can be modified from AUU or AUA to AUC; the codons for Thr can be modified from ACU or ACA to ACC or ACG; the codon for Asn can be modified from AAU to AAC; the codon for Lys can be modified from AAA to AAG; the codons for Val can be modified from GUU or GUA to GUC or GUG; the codon for Asp can be modified from GAU to GAC; the codon for Glu can be modified from GAA to GAG; the stop codon UAA can be modified to uAG or UGA. In the case of the codons for Met (AUG) and Trp (UGG), on the other hand, there is no possibility of sequence modification. The substitutions listed above can be used either individually or in all possible combinations to increase the G/C content of the inventive artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, compared to its corresponding wild type sequence, such as the corresponding wild type mRNA sequence. Thus, for example, all codons for Thr occurring in the wild type sequence can be modified to ACC (or ACG). Preferably, however, for example, combinations of the above substitution possibilities are used:

substitution of all codons coding for Thr in the original sequence (wild type mRNA) to ACC (or ACG) and

substitution of all codons originally coding for Ser to UCC (or UCG or ADC); substitution of all codons coding for Ile in the original sequence to AUG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Lys to AAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Tyr to DC; substitution of all mhos coding for Val in the original sequence to DUD (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC (or GCG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Arg to CGC (or CGG); substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original sequence to GUC (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAB and substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC (or GCG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Gly to GGC (or GGG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Asn to AAC; substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original sequence to GUC (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Phe to UUC and substitution of all codons originally coding for Cys to UGC and substitution of all codons originally coding for Leu to CUG (or CUC) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Gln to CAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Pro to CCC (or CCG); etc. Preferably, the G/C content of the coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, is increased by at least 7%, more preferably by at least 15%, particularly preferably by at least 20%, compared to the G/C content of the coding region of the wild type nucleic acid. According to a specific embodiment at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80% and mast preferably at least 90%, 95% or even 100% of the substitutable codons in the coding region or the whale sequence of the wild type nucleic acid sequence, preferably an mRNA sequence, are substituted, thereby increasing the G/C content of said sequence. In this context, it is particularly preferable to increase the G/C content of the inventive artificial nucleic acid to the maximum (i.e. 100% of the substitutable codons), in particular in the region coding for the at least one protein, compared to the wild type sequence.

In one embodiment of the invention, the G/C content of the artificial nucleic acid of the invention is increased compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the C content of the coding region of the mRNA sequence is increased compared to the C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the codon usage in the coding region of the mRNA sequence is adapted to the human codon usage, or wherein the codon adaptation index (CAI) is increased or maximised in the coding region of the mRNA sequence, wherein the encoded amino acid sequence of the mRNA sequence is preferably not being modified compared to the encoded amino acid sequence of the wild type mRNA.

In a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention is codon optimized, wherein

-   -   (i) the at least one coding region comprises a nucleic acid         sequence, which is codon-optimized; and/or     -   (ii) the at least one coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid         sequence, which is identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%,         85%, 89%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%,         98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence selected from         the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 26461-39690,         39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729,         39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745 and         39746, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences;         and/or     -   (iii) the at least one coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid         sequence, which is identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%,         85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%,         98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence selected from         the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 13231-17640, or a fragment         or variant of any of these sequences; and/or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acid of the invention, wherein the         at least one coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid sequence,         which is identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%,         87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or         99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group         consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 17641-22050, or a fragment or variant         of any of these sequences; and/or     -   (v) the artificial nucleic acid of the invention, wherein the at         least one coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid sequence,         which is identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%,         87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or         99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group         consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 22051-26460, or a fragment or variant         of any of these sequences.

According to the invention, a further preferred modification of the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention is based on the finding that the translation efficiency is also determined by a different frequency in the occurrence of tRNAs in cells. It is thus preferred that the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is codon-optimized. The term “codon-optimized” as used herein typically refers to an artificial nucleic acid, preferably to a nucleic acid sequence in the at least one coding region therein, wherein at least one radon of the wild type sequence, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell, is exchanged for a radon, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. Most preferably, that modification also increases the G/C content of the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid.

Thus, if so-called “rare codons” are present in the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention to an increased extent, the corresponding modified nucleic acid sequence, preferably an mRNA sequence, is translated to a significantly poorer degree than in the case where codons coding for relatively “frequent” tRNAs are present. According to the invention, in the modified artificial nucleic acid of the present invention, the region which encodes the at least one protein as defined herein is modified compared to the corresponding region of the wild type nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, such that at least one radon of the wild type sequence, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell, is exchanged for a radon, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. By this modification, the sequences of the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention is modified such that codons for which frequently occurring tRNAs are available are inserted. In other words, according to the invention, by this modification all codons of the wild type sequence which code for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell can in each case be exchanged for a codon which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and which, in each case, carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. Which tRNAs occur relatively frequently in the cell and which, in contrast, occur relatively rarely is known to a person skilled in the art; cf. e.g. Akashi, Curr. Opin. Genet. Dev. 2001, 11(6): 660-666. The codons which use for the particular amino acid the tRNA which occurs the most frequently, e.g. the Gly radon, which uses the tRNA, which occurs the most frequently in the (human) cell, are particularly preferred. According to the invention, it is particularly preferable to link the sequential G/C content which is increased, in particular maximized, in the modified artificial nucleic acid of the present invention, with the “frequent” codons without modifying the amino acid sequence of the protein encoded by the coding region of the corresponding wild type nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA. This preferred embodiment allows provision of a particularly efficiently translated and stabilized (modified) artificial nucleic acid of the present invention. The determination of an artificial nucleic acid of the present invention as described above (increased G/C content; exchange of tRNAs) can be carried out using the computer program explained in WO 02/098443—the disclosure content of which is included in its full scope in the present invention. Using this computer program, the nucleotide sequence of any desired mRNA can be modified with the aid of the genetic code or the degenerative nature thereof such that a maximum G/C content results, in combination with the use of codons which code for tRNAs occurring as frequently as possible in the cell, the amino acid sequence encoded by the artificial nucleic acid preferably not being modified compared to the non-modified sequence. Alternatively, it is also possible to modify only the G/C content or only the radon usage compared to the original sequence. The source code in Visual Basic 6.0 (development environment used: Microsoft Visual Studio Enterprise 6.0 with Servicepack 3) is also described in WO 02/098443. In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention is increased compared to the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of its particular wild type nucleic acid, preferably an mRWA. This modification (an increased A/U content around the ribosome binding site) increases the efficiency of ribosome binding to the artificial nucleic acid. An effective binding of the ribosomes to the ribosome binding site (e.g. a Kozak sequence as known in the art) in turn has the effect of an efficient translation of the artificial nucleic acid. According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention may be modified with respect to potentially destabilizing sequence elements. Particularly, the coding region and/or the 5′ and/or 3′ untranslated region of the artificial nucleic acid may be modified compared to the particular wild type nucleic acid such that it contains no destabilizing sequence elements, the amino acid sequence encoded by the modified artificial nucleic acid preferably not being modified compared to its particular wild type nucleic acid. It is known that, for example, in sequences of eukaryotic RNAs destabilizing sequence elements (USE) occur, to which signal proteins bind and regulate enzymatic degradation of RNA in vivo. For further stabilization of the modified artificial nucleic acid, optionally in the region which encodes the at least one protein as defined herein, one or more such modifications compared to the corresponding region of the wild type nucleic acid, preferably an mRWA, can therefore be carried out, so that no or substantially no destabilizing sequence elements are contained there. According to the invention, DSE present in the untranslated regions (3′- and/or 5′-UTR) can also be eliminated from the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention by such modifications. Such destabilizing sequences are e.g. AU-rich sequences (AURES), which occur in 3′-UTR sections of numerous unstable RNAs (Caput et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 1986, 83:1670 to 1674). The artificial nucleic acid of the present invention is therefore preferably modified compared to the wild type nucleic acid such that the artificial nucleic acid contains no such destabilizing sequences. This also applies to those sequence motifs which are recognized by possible endonucleases, e.g. the sequence GAACAAG, which is contained in the 3′-UTR segment of the gene which codes for the transferrin receptor (Binder et al., EMBO J. 1994, 13: 1999 to 1980). These sequence motifs are also preferably removed in the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention. It is further preferred that the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention has, in a modified form, at least one IRES as defined above and/or at least one 5′ and/or 3′ stabilizing sequence, in a modified form, e.g. to enhance ribosome binding or to allow expression of different encoded polypeptides located on an artificial nucleic acid of the present invention. This particularly applies to embodiments, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is bi- or multicistronic and wherein an IRES is preferably located between individual coding regions.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid or artificial nucleic acid molecule comprises or consists of at least one nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-39690, 39715, 39719, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745 and 39749, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences. More preferably, the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic comprises or consists of an RNA sequence, which is at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%. 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-39990, 39715, 39719, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745 and 39749.

G/C Content Modification:

According to another embodiment, the RNA of the present invention, preferably an mRNA, may be modified, and thus stabilized, by modifying the guanosine/cytosine (G/C) content of the RNA, preferably of the at least one coding sequence of the RNA of the present invention.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the G/C content of the coding region of the RNA of the present invention is modified, particularly increased, compared to the G/C content of the coding region of the respective wild type RNA, i.e. the unmodified RNA. The amino acid sequence encoded by the RNA is preferably not modified as compared to the amino acid sequence encoded by the respective wild type RNA. This modification of the RNA of the present invention is based on the fact that the sequence of any RNA region to be translated is important for efficient translation of that RNA. Thus, the composition of the RNA and the sequence of various nucleotides are important. In particular, sequences having an increased G (guanosine)/C (cytosine) content are more stable than sequences having an increased A (adenosine)/U (uracil) content. According to the invention, the codons of the RNA are therefore varied compared to the respective wild type RNA, while retaining the translated amino acid sequence, such that they include an increased amount of G/C nucleotides. In respect to the fact that several codons code for one and the same amino acid (so-called degeneration of the genetic code), the most favourable codons for the stability can be determined (so-called alternative codon usage). Depending on the amino acid to be encoded by the RNA, there are various possibilities for modification of the RNA sequence, compared to its wild type sequence. In the case of amino acids, which are encoded by codons, which contain exclusively G or C nucleotides, no modification of the codon is necessary. Thus, the codons for Pro (CCC or CCG), Arg (CGC or CGG), Ala (GCC or GCG) and Gly (GGC or GGG) require no modification, since no A or U is present. In contrast, codons which contain A and/or U nucleotides can be modified by substitution of other codons, which code far the same amino acids but contain no A and/or U. Examples of these are: the codons for Pro can be modified from CCU or CCA to CCC or CCG; the codons for Arg can be modified from CGU or CGA or AGA or AGG to CGC or CGG; the codons for Ala can be modified from GGU or GCC to GCC or GCG; the codons for Gly can be modified from GGU or GGA to GGC or GGG. In other cases, although A or U nucleotides cannot be eliminated from the codons, it is however possible to decrease the A and U content by using codons which contain a lower content of A and/or U nucleotides. Examples of these are: the codons for Phe can be modified from UUU to UUC; the codons for Leu can be modified from UUA, UUG, CUU or CUA to CUC or CUG; the codons for Ser can be modified from UCU or UCA or AGU to UCC, UCG or AGC; the codon for Tyr can be modified from UAU to UAC; the codon for Cys can be modified from UGU to UGC; the codon for His can be modified from CAU to CAC; the codon for Gln can be modified from CAA to CAG; the codons for Ile can be modified from AUU or AUA to AUC; the codons for Thr can be modified from ACU or ACA to ACC or ACG; the codon for Asn can be modified from AAU to AAC; the codon for Lys can be modified from AAA to MG; the codons for Val can be modified from GUU or GUA to GUC or GUG; the codon for Asp can be modified from GAU to GAC; the codon for Glu can be modified from GAA to GAG; the stop codon UAA can be modified to UAG or UGA. In the case of the codons for Met (AUG) and Trp (UGG), on the other hand, there is no possibility of sequence modification. The substitutions listed above can be used either individually or in all possible combinations to increase the G/C content of the at least one mRNA of the composition of the present invention compared to its particular wild type mRNA (i.e. the original sequence). Thus, for example, all codons for Thr occurring in the wild type sequence can be modified to ACC (or ACG). Preferably, however, for example, combinations of the above substitution possibilities are used:

substitution of all codons coding for Thr in the original sequence (wild type mRNA) to ACC (or AGG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Ser to UCC (or UCG or AGC); substitution of all codons coding for Ile in the original sequence to AUC and substitution of all codons originally coding for Lys to AAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Tyr to UAC; substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original sequence to GUC (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC (or GCG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Arg to CGC (or CGG); substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original sequence to GUC (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC (or GCG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Gly to GGC (or GGG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Asn to AAC; substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original sequence to GUC (or GUG) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Phe to UUC and substitution of all codons originally coding for Cys to UGC and substitution of all codons originally coding for Leu to CUG (or CUC) and substitution of all codons originally coding for Gln to CAG and substitution of all codons originally coding for Pro to CCC (or CCG); etc.

Preferably, the G/C content of the coding region of the RNA of the present invention is increased by at least 7%, more preferably by at least 15%, particularly preferably by at least 20%, compared to the G/C content of the coding region of the wild type RNA, which codes for an antigen as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof. According to a specific embodiment at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80% and most preferably at least 90%, 95% or even 100% of the substitutable codons in the region coding for an antigen as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof or the whole sequence of the wild type RNA sequence are substituted, thereby increasing the GC/content of said sequence. In this context, it is particularly preferable to increase the G/C content of the RNA of the present invention, preferably of the at least one coding region of the RNA according to the invention, to the maximum (i.e. 100% of the substitutable codons) as compared to the wild type sequence. According to the invention, a further preferred modification of the RNA of the present invention is based on the finding that the translation efficiency is also determined by a different frequency in the occurrence of tRNAs in cells. Thus, if so-called “rare codons” are present in the RNA of the present invention to an increased extent, the corresponding modified RNA sequence is translated to a significantly poorer degree than in the case where codons coding for relatively “frequent” tRNAs are present. According to the invention, in the modified RNA of the present invention, the region which codes for an antigen as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof is modified compared to the corresponding region of the wild type RNA such that at least one codon of the wild type sequence, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell, is exchanged for a codon, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. By this modification, the sequences of the RNA of the present invention are modified such that codons for which frequently occurring tRNAs are available are inserted. In other words, according to the invention, by this modification all codons of the wild type sequence, which code for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell, can in each case be exchanged for a codon, which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and which, in each case, carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. Which tRNAs occur relatively frequently in the cell and which, in contrast, occur relatively rarely is known to a person skilled in the art; cf. e.g. Akashi, Curr. Opin. Genet. Dev. 2001, 11(9): 690-999. The codons, which use for the particular amino acid the tRNA which occurs the most frequently, e.g. the Gly codon, which uses the tRNA, which occurs the mast frequently in the (human) cell, are particularly preferred. According to the invention, it is particularly preferable to link the sequential G/C content which is increased, in particular maximized, in the modified RNA of the present invention, with the “frequent” codons without modifying the amino acid sequence of the protein encoded by the coding region of the RNA. This preferred embodiment allows provision of a particularly efficiently translated and stabilized (modified) RNA of the present invention. The determination of a modified RNA of the present invention as described above (increased G/C content; exchange of tRNAs) can be carried out using the computer program explained in WO 02/098443 the disclosure content of which is included in its full scope in the present invention. Using this computer program, the nucleotide sequence of any desired RNA can be modified with the aid of the genetic code or the degenerative nature thereof such that a maximum G/C content results, in combination with the use of codons which code for tRNAs occurring as frequently as possible in the cell, the amino acid sequence coded by the modified RNA preferably not being modified compared to the non-modified sequence. Alternatively, it is also possible to modify only the G/C content or only the codon usage compared to the original sequence. The source code in Visual Basic 6.0 (development environment used: Microsoft Visual Studio Enterprise 6.0 with Servicepack 3) is also described in WO 02/098443. In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of the RNA of the present invention is increased compared to the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of its respective wild type mRNA. This modification (an increased A/U content around the ribosome binding site) increases the efficiency of ribosome binding to the RNA. An effective binding of the ribosomes to the ribosome binding site (Kozak sequence: SEQ ID NOs: 39711, 39712; the AUG forms the start codon) in turn has the effect of an efficient translation of the RNA. According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the RNA of the present invention may be modified with respect to potentially destabilizing sequence elements. Particularly, the coding region and/or the 5′ and/or 3′ untranslated region of this RNA may be modified compared to the respective wild type RNA such that it contains no destabilizing sequence elements, the encoded amino acid sequence of the modified RNA preferably not being modified compared to its respective wild type RNA. It is known that, for example in sequences of eukaryotic RNAs, destabilizing sequence elements (DSE) occur, to which signal proteins bind and regulate enzymatic degradation of RNA in vivo. For further stabilization of the modified RNA, optionally in the region which encodes an antigen as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof, one or more such modifications compared to the corresponding region of the wild type RNA can therefore be carried out, so that no or substantially no destabilizing sequence elements are contained there. According to the invention, DSE present in the untranslated regions (3′- and/or 5′-UTR) can also be eliminated from the RNA of the present invention by such modifications. Such destabilizing sequences are e.g. AU-rich sequences (AURES), which occur in 3′-UTR sections of numerous unstable RNAs (Caput et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 1986, 83:1670 to 1674). The RNA of the present invention is therefore preferably modified compared to the respective wild type RNA such that the RNA of the present invention contains no such destabilizing sequences. This also applies to those sequence motifs which are recognized by possible endonucleases, e.g. the sequence GAACAAG, which is contained in the 3′-UTR segment of the gene encoding the transferrin receptor (Binder et al., EMBO J. 1994, 13: 1969 to 1980). These sequence motifs are also preferably removed in the RNA of the present invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an RNA as defined herein comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence comprises or consists of any one of the (modified) nucleic acid sequences defined in SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745, 39746, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 25451-30870, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 30871-35280, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 35281-39690, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO:39746, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39714, 39716, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences. In other words, the at least one coding sequence preferably comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745, 39746, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 26461-30870, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 30871-35280, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 35281-39690, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO: 39746, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39714, 39716, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any one of these nucleic acid sequences.

In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence identical to or having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even mare preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with any one of the (modified) nucleic acid sequences defined in SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745, 39745, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 25451-30870, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 30871-35280, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 35281-39690, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO: 39746, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 39714, 39716, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 80% with any one of the (modified) nucleic acid sequences defined in SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745, 39746, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 25461-30870, and/or SEQ ID Hs: 30871-35280, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 35281-39690, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO: 39745, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 39714, 39715, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or of a fragment or variant of any one of these sequences.

GC Optimized Sequences:

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an RNA comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 39714, 39716, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any one of these nucleic acid sequences.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 39714, 39715, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any one of these nucleic acid sequences.

Sequences Adapted to Human Codon Usage:

According to the invention, a further preferred modification of the RNA of the present invention is based on the finding that codons encoding the same amino acid typically occur at different frequencies. According to the invention, in the modified RNA of the present invention, the coding sequence (coding region) as defined herein is preferably modified compared to the corresponding region of the respective wild type RNA such that the frequency of the codons encoding the same amino acid corresponds to the naturally occurring frequency of that codon according to the human codon usage as e.g. shown in Table 2.

For example, in the case of the amino acid alanine (Ala) present in an amino acid sequence encoded by the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention, the wild type coding sequence is preferably adapted in a way that the codon “GCC” is used with a frequency of 0.40, the codon “GCT” is used with a frequency of 0.28, the codon “GCA” is used with a frequency of 0.22 and the codon “GCG” is used with a frequency of 0.10 etc. (see Table 2).

TABLE 2 Human codon usage table Amino acid codon fraction /1000 Amino acid codon fraction /1000 Ala GCG 0.10 7.4 Pro CCG 0.11 6.9 Ala GCA 0.22 15.8 Pro CCA 0.27 16.9 Ala GCT 0.28 18.5 Pro CCT 0.29 17.5 Ala GCC* 0.40 27.7 Pro CCC* 0.33 19.8 Cys TGT 0.42 10.6 Gln CAG* 0.73 34.2 Cys TGC* 0.58 12.6 Gln CAA 0.27 12.3 Asp GAT 0.44 21.8 Arg AGG 0.22 12.0 Asp GAC* 0.56 25.1 Arg AGA* 0.21 12.1 Glu GAG* 0.59 39.6 Arg CGG 0.19 11.4 Glu GAA 0.41 29.0 Arg CGA 0.10 6.2 Phe TTT 0.43 17.6 Arg CGT 0.09 4.5 Phe TTC* 0.57 20.3 Arg CGC 0.19 10.4 Gly GGG 0.23 16.5 Ser AGT 0.14 12.1 Gly GGA 0.26 16.5 Ser AGC* 0.25 19.5 Gly GGT 0.18 10.8 Ser TCG 0.09 4.4 Gly GGC* 0.33 22.2 Ser TCA 0.15 12.2 His CAT 0.41 10.9 Ser TCT 0.18 15.2 His CAC* 0.59 15.1 Ser TCC 0.23 17.7 Ile ATA 0.14 7.5 Thr ACG 0.12 9.1 Ile ATT 0.35 19.0 Thr ACA 0.27 15.1 Ile ATC* 0.52 20.8 Thr ACT 0.23 13.1 Lys AAG* 0.60 31.9 Thr ACC* 0.38 18.9 Lys AAA 0.40 24.4 Val GTG* 0.48 28.1 Leu TTG 0.12 12.9 Val GTA 0.10 7.1 Leu TTA 0.09 7.7 Val GTT 0.17 11.0 Leu CTG* 0.43 39.9 Val GTC 0.25 14.5 Leu CTA 0.07 7.2 Trp TGG* 1 13.2 Leu CTT 0.12 13.2 Tyr TAT 0.42 12.2 Leu CTC 0.20 19.9 Tyr TAC* 0.58 15.3 Met ATG* 1 22.0 Stop TGA* 0.91 1.9 Asn AAT 0.44 17.0 Stop TAG 0.17 0.8 Asn AAC* 0.59 19.1 Stop TAA 0.22 1.0 *most frequent codon

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an RNA comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 17641-22050, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 89%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 99%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and mast preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 17641-22050, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

Codon-Optimized Sequences:

As described above it is preferred according to the invention, that all codons of the wild type sequence which code for a tRNA, which is relatively rare in the cell, are exchanged for a codon which codes for a tRNA, which is relatively frequent in the cell and which, in each case, carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA. Therefore it is particularly preferred that the most frequent codons are used for each encoded amino acid (see Table 2, most frequent codons are marked with asterisks). Such an optimization procedure increases the codon adaptation index (CAI) and ultimately maximises the CAI. In the context of the invention, sequences with increased or maximized CAI are typically referred to as “codon-optimized” sequences and/or CAI increased and/or maximized sequences. According to a preferred embodiment, the RNA of the present invention comprises at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence is codon-optimized as described herein. More preferably, the codon adaptation index (CAI) of the at least one coding sequence is at least 0.5, at least 0.8, at least 0.9 or at least 0.95. Most preferably, the codon adaptation index (CAI) of the at least one coding sequence is 1.

For example, in the case of the amino acid alanine (Ala) present in the amino acid sequence encoded by the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention, the wild type coding sequence is adapted in a way that the most frequent human codon “GCC” is always used for said amino acid, or for the amino acid Cysteine (Cys), the wild type sequence is adapted in a way that the most frequent human codon “TGC” is always used for said amino acid etc.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an RNA comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 22051-29490, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 89%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 98%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, mare preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 22051-29460, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

C-Optimized Sequences:

According to another embodiment, the RNA of the composition of the present invention may be modified by modifying, preferably increasing, the cytosine (C) content of the RNA, preferably of the coding region of the RNA.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the C content of the coding region of the RNA of the present invention is modified, preferably increased, compared to the C content of the coding region of the respective wild type RNA, i.e. the unmodified RNA. The amino acid sequence encoded by the at least one coding sequence of the RNA of the present invention is preferably not modified as compared to the amino acid sequence encoded by the respective wild type mRNA.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the modified RNA is modified such that at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% or 80%, or at least 90% of the theoretically possible maximum cytosine-content or even a maximum cytosine-content is achieved.

In further preferred embodiments, at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or even 100% of the codons of the target RNA wild type sequence, which are “cytosine content optimizable” are replaced by codons having a higher cytosine-content than the ones present in the wild type sequence.

In a further preferred embodiment, some of the codons of the wild type coding sequence may additionally be modified such that a codon for a relatively rare tRNA in the cell is exchanged by a codon for a relatively frequent tRNA in the cell, provided that the substituted codon for a relatively frequent tRNA carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare tRNA of the original wild type codon. Preferably, all of the codons for a relatively rare tRNA are replaced by a codon for a relatively frequent tRNA in the cell, except codons encoding amino acids, which are exclusively encoded by codons not containing any cytosine, or except for glutamine (Gin), which is encoded by two codons each containing the same number of cytosines.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the modified target RNA is modified such that at least 80%, or at least 90% of the theoretically possible maximum cytosine-content or even a maximum cytosine-content is achieved by means of codons, which code for relatively frequent tRNAs in the cell, wherein the amino acid sequence remains unchanged.

Due to the naturally occurring degeneracy of the genetic code, more than one codon may encode a particular amino acid. Accordingly, 18 out of 20 naturally occurring amino acids are encoded by more than one codon (with Tryp and Met being an exception), e.g. by 2 codons (e.g. Cys, Asp, Glu), by three codons (e.g. Ile), by 4 codons (e.g. Al, Gly, Pro) or by 6 codons (e.g. Leu, Arg, Ser). However, not all codons encoding the same amino acid are utilized with the same frequency under in vivo conditions. Depending on each single organism, a typical codon usage profile is established.

The term “cytosine content-optimizable codon” as used within the context of the present invention refers to codons, which exhibit a lower content of cytosines than other codons encoding the same amino acid. Accordingly, any wild type codon, which may be replaced by another codon encoding the same amino acid and exhibiting a higher number of cytosines within that codon, is considered to be cytosine-optimizable (C-optimizable). Any such substitution of a C-optimizable wild type codon by the specific C-optimized codon within a wild type coding region increases its overall C content and reflects a C-enriched modified mRNA sequence. According to a preferred embodiment, the RNA of the present invention, preferably the at least one coding sequence of the RNA of the present invention comprises or consists of a C-maximized RNA sequence containing C-optimized codons for all potentially C-optimizable codons. Accordingly, 100% or all of the theoretically replaceable C-optimizable codons are preferably replaced by C-optimized codons over the entire length of the coding region.

In this context, cytosine-content optimizable codons are codons, which contain a lower number of cytosines than other codons coding for the same amino acid. Any of the codons GCG, GCA, GCU codes for the amino acid Ala, which may be exchanged by the codon GCC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon HU that codes for Cys may be exchanged by the codon UGC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon GAU which codes for Asp may be exchanged by the codon GAC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon that UUU that codes for Phe may be exchanged for the codon UUC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons GGG, GGA, GGU that code Gly may be exchanged by the codon GGC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon CAU that codes for His may be exchanged by the codon CAC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons AUA, AUU that code for Ile may be exchanged by the codon AUC, and/or any of the codons UUG, UUA, CUG, CUA, CUU coding for Leu may be exchanged by the codon CUC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon AAU that codes for Asn may be exchanged by the codon AAC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons CCG, CCA, CCU coding for Pro may be exchanged by the codon CCG encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons AGG, AGA, CGG, CGA, CGU coding for Arg may be exchanged by the codon CGC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons AGU, AGC, UCG, UCA, UCU coding for Ser may be exchanged by the codon UCC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons ACG, ACA, ACU coding for Thr may be exchanged by the codon ACC encoding the same amino acid, and/or any of the codons GUG, GUA, GUU coding for Val may be exchanged by the codon GUC encoding the same amino acid, and/or the codon UAU coding for Tyr may be exchanged by the codon UAC encoding the same amino acid.

In any of the above instances, the number of cytosines is increased by 1 per exchanged codon. Exchange of all non C-optimized codons (corresponding to C-optimizable codons) of the coding region results in a C-maximized coding sequence. In the context of the invention, at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, of the non C-optimized codons within the at least one coding region of the RNA according to the invention are replaced by C-optimized codons.

It may be preferred that for some amino acids the percentage of C-optimizable codons replaced by C-optimized codons is less than 70%, while for other amino acids the percentage of replaced codons is higher than 70% to meet the overall percentage of C-optimization of at least 70% of all C-optimizable wild type codons of the coding region.

Preferably, in a C-optimized RNA of the invention, at least 50% of the C-optimizable wild type codons for any given amino acid are replaced by C-optimized codons, e.g. any modified C-enriched RNA preferably contains at least 50% C-optimized codons at C-optimizable wild type codon positions encoding any one of the above mentioned amino acids Ala, Cys, Asp, Phe, Gly, His, Ile, Leu, Asn, Pro, Arg, Ser, Thr, Val and Tyr, preferably at least 00%.

In this context codons encoding amino acids, which are not cytosine content-optimizable and which are, however, encoded by at least two codons, may be used without any further selection process. However, the radon of the wild type sequence that codes for a relatively rare tRNA in the cell, e.g. a human cell, may be exchanged for a codon that codes for a relatively frequent tRNA in the cell, wherein both code for the same amino acid. Accordingly, the relatively rare codon GAA coding for Glu may be exchanged by the relative frequent codon GAG coding for the same amino acid, and/or

the relatively rare codon AAA coding for Lys may be exchanged by the relative frequent codon AAG coding for the same amino acid, and/or

the relatively rare codon CAA coding for Gln may be exchanged for the relative frequent codon CAG encoding the same amino acid.

In this context, the amino acids Met (AUG) and Trp (UGG), which are encoded by only one codon each, remain unchanged. Stop codons are not cytosine-content optimized; however, the relatively rare stop codons amber, ochre (UAA, UAG) may be exchanged by the relatively frequent stop codon opal (UGA).

The single substitutions listed above may be used individually as well as in all possible combinations in order to optimize the cytosine-content of the modified RNA compared to the wild type mRNA sequence.

Accordingly, the at least one coding sequence as defined herein may be changed compared to the coding region of the respective wild type RNA in such a way that an amino acid encoded by at least two or more codons, of which one comprises one additional cytosine, such a codon may be exchanged by the C-optimized codon comprising one additional cytosine, wherein the amino acid is preferably unaltered compared to the wild type sequence.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an RNA comprising at least one coding sequence, wherein the coding sequence comprises a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID Hs: 13231-17640, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one coding sequence of the RNA according to the invention comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence having a sequence identity of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 89%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, preferably of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, even more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably of at least 90% and most preferably of at least 95% or even 97%, with a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 13231-17940, or a fragment or variant of any one of said nucleic acid sequences.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention provides an RNA, preferably an mRNA, comprising at least one coding sequence as defined herein, wherein the G/C content of the at least one coding sequence of the RNA is increased compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the corresponding wild type RNA, and/or wherein the C content of the at least one coding sequence of the RNA is increased compared to the C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the corresponding wild type RNA, and/or wherein the codons in the at least one coding sequence of the RNA are adapted to human codon usage, wherein the codon adaptation index (CAI) is preferably increased or maximised in the at least one coding sequence of the RNA, and wherein the amino acid sequence encoded by the RNA is preferably not being modified compared to the amino acid sequence encoded by the corresponding wild type RNA.

5′-Cap Structure:

Modification of the 5′-End of a Modified Artificial Nucleic Acid:

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as defined herein, can be modified by the addition of a so-called “5′-cap” structure, which preferably stabilizes the nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, as described herein.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, preferably an mRNA, comprises a 5′-cap structure.

A 5′-cap is an entity, typically a modified nucleotide entity, which generally “caps” the 5′-end of a nucleic acid, for example of a mature mRNA. A 5′-cap may typically be formed by a modified nucleotide, particularly by a derivative of a guanine nucleotide. Preferably, the 5′-cap is linked to the 5′-terminus via a 5¹-5′-triphosphate linkage. A 5′-cap may be methylated, e.g. m7GpppN, wherein N is the terminal 5′ nucleotide of the nucleic acid carrying the 5′-cap, typically the 5′-end of an mRNA. m7GpppN is the 5′-cap structure, which naturally occurs in mRNA transcribed by polymerase II and is therefore preferably not considered as modification comprised in an artificial nucleic acid in this context. Accordingly, a modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, of the present invention may comprise an m7GpppN as 5′-cap, but additionally the modified artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, typically comprises at least one further modification as defined herein.

Further examples of 5′cap structures include glyceryl, inverted deoxy abasic residue (moiety), 4′,5′ methylene nucleotide, 1-(beta-D-erythrofuranosyl) nucleotide, 4′-thio nucleotide, carbocyclic nucleotide, 1,5-anhydrohexitol nucleotide, L-nucleotides, alpha-nucleotide, modified base nucleotide, threo-pentofuranosyl nucleotide, acyclic 3′,4′-seco nucleotide, acyclic 3,4-dihydroxybutyl nucleotide, acyclic 3,5 dihydroxypentyl nucleotide, 3′-3′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-3′-inverted abasic moiety, 3′-2′-inverted nucleotide moiety, 3′-2′-inverted abasic moiety, 1,4-butanediol phosphate, 3′-phosphoramidate, hexylphosphate, aminohexyl phosphate, 3′-phosphate, 3′phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, or bridging or non-bridging methylphosphonate moiety. These modified 5′-cap structures are regarded as at least one modification in this context.

Particularly preferred modified 5′-cap structures are cap1 (methylation of the ribose of the adjacent nucleotide of m70), cap2 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 2nd nucleotide downstream of the m70), cap3 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 3rd nucleotide downstream of the m7G), cap4 (additional methylation of the ribose of the 4th nucleotide downstream of the m70), ARCA (anti-reverse cap analogue, modified ARCA (e.g. phosphothioate modified ARCA), inosine, N1-methyl-guanosine, 2′-fluoro-guanosine, 7-deaza-guanosine, 8-oxo-guanosine, 2-amino-guanosine, LNA-guanosine, and 2-azido-guanosine.

5′-UTRs:

According to a further embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises an untranslated region (UTR). More preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, preferably an mRNA, comprises at least one of the following structural elements: a 5′- and/or 3′-untranslated region element (UTR element), particularly a 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene or from a fragment, homolog or a variant thereof, or a 5′- and/or 3′-UTR element which may be derivable from a gene that provides a stable mRNA or from a homolog, fragment or variant thereof; a histone-stem-loop structure, preferably a histone-stem-loop in its 3′ untranslated region; a 5′-cap structure; a poly-A tail; or a poly(C) sequence.

In a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, comprises at least one 5′- or 3′-UTR element. In this context, an UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′- or 3′-UTR of any naturally occurring gene or which is derived from a fragment, a homolog or a variant of the 5′- or 3′-UTR of a gene. Preferably the 5′- or 3′-UTR element used according to the present invention is heterologous to the coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid. Even if 5′- or 3′-UTR elements derived from naturally occurring genes are preferred, also synthetically engineered UTR elements may be used in the context of the present invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a 5′-UTR. More preferably, the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 5′-UTR comprising at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one 5′-untranslated region element (5′-UTR element), preferably a heterologous 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene or which is derived from a fragment, homolog or variant of the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene.

It is particularly preferred that the 5′-UTR element does not comprise a TOP-motif or a 5′TOP, as defined above.

In same embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence of the 5′-UTR element, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene, terminates at its 3′-end with a nucleotide located at position 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 upstream of the start codon (e.g. A(U/T)G) of the gene or mRNA it is derived from. Thus, the 5′-UTR element does not comprise any part of the protein coding region. Thus, preferably, the only protein coding part of the artificial nucleic acid is provided by the at least one coding region.

The nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene, is typically derived from a eukaryotic TOP gene, preferably a plant or animal TOP gene, more preferably a chordate TOP gene, even more preferably a vertebrate TOP gene, most preferably a mammalian TOP gene, such as a human TOP gene.

For example, the 5′-UTR element is preferably selected from 5′-UTR elements comprising or consisting of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a nucleic acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 1-1363, SEQ ID NO:1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, from the homologs of SEQ ID NOs: 1-1363, SEQ ID NO: 1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, from a variant thereof, or preferably from a corresponding RNA sequence. The term “homologs of SEQ ID Hs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO: 1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700” refers to sequences of other species than Homo sapiens, which are homologous to the sequences according to SEQ ID NOs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO:1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700.

In a preferred embodiment, the 5′-UTR element of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a nucleic acid sequence extending from nucleotide position 5 (i.e. the nucleotide that is located at position 5 in the sequence) to the nucleotide position immediately 5′ to the start codon (located at the 3′ end of the sequences), e.g. the nucleotide position immediately 5′ to the ATG sequence, of a nucleic acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO:1395, SEQ ID NO:1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, from the homologs of SEQ ID NOs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO:1395, SEQ ID NO:1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700 from a variant thereof, or a corresponding RNA sequence. It is particularly preferred that the 5′-UTR element is derived from a nucleic acid sequence extending from the nucleotide position immediately 3′ to the 5′TOP to the nucleotide position immediately 5′ to the start codon (located at the 3′-end of the sequences), e.g. the nucleotide position immediately 5′ to the ATG sequence, of a nucleic acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO:1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, from the homologs of SEQ ID NOs: 1-1393, SEQ ID NO: 1395, SEQ ID NO: 1421 and SEQ ID NO: 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, from a variant thereof, or a corresponding RNA sequence.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal protein or from a variant of a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal protein. For example, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a nucleic acid sequence according to any of SEQ ID NO: 97, 170, 193, 244, 259, 554, 950, 975, 700, 721, 913, 1016, 1093, 1120, 1138, and 1284-1390 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, a corresponding RNA sequence, a homing thereof, or a variant thereof as described herein, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif. As described above, the sequence extending from position 5 to the nucleotide immediately 5′ to the ATG (which is located at the 3′-end of the sequences) corresponds to the 5′-UTR of said sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble VP1 protein sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-8820, 39713, 39714, 39718, 39719, 39722, 39723, 39726, 39727, 39731, 39732, 39735, 39736, 39739, 39740, 39743 and 39744, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230, 39715, 39719, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725, 39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742, 39745, 39746, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 26461-30870, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 30871-35280, and/or SEQ ID NOs: 35781-39690, and/or SEQ ID NO:39713 to SEQ ID NO:39746, and/or SEQ ID NO: 39714, 39716, 39729, 39734.39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 13231-17640, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 17641-22050, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 22051-26460, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 26461-30870, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 30871-35280, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

In one embodiment, the sequences of the invention are selected from the group of any of SEQ ID NOs: 35281-39690, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences, wherein these sequences resemble optimized VP1 nucleotide wild type sequences.

Preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a 5′-UTR comprising at least one heterologous 5′-UTR sequence, wherein the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal protein, preferably from a corresponding RNA sequence, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

Preferably, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal Large protein (RPL) or from a homolog or variant of a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal Large protein (RPL). For example, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a nucleic acid sequence according to any of SEQ ID NOs: 67, 259, 1284-1318, 1344, 1346, 1348-1354, 1357, 1358, 1421 and 1422 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, a corresponding RNA sequence, a homolog thereof, or a variant thereof as described herein, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a ribosomal protein Large 32 gene, preferably from a vertebrate ribosomal protein Large 32 (L32) gene, more preferably from a mammalian ribosomal protein Large 32 (L32) gene, most preferably from a human ribosomal protein Large 32 (L32) gene, or from a variant of the 5′-UTR of a ribosomal protein Large 32 gene, preferably from a vertebrate ribosomal protein large 32 (L32) gene, more preferably from a mammalian ribosomal protein Large 32 (L32) gene, most preferably from a human ribosomal protein Large 32 (L32) gene, wherein preferably the 5′-UTR element does not comprise the 5′TOP of said gene.

Accordingly, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence which has an identity of at least about 40%, preferably of at least about 50%, preferably of at least about 60%, preferably of at least about 70%, more preferably of at least about 80%, more preferably of at least about 90%, even more preferably of at least about 95%, even more preferably of at least about 99% to the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 20649 (5′-UTR of human ribosomal protein Large 32 lacking the 5′-terminal oligopyrimidine tract; corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1368 of the patent application WO 2013/143700) or preferably to a corresponding RNA sequence, such as SEQ ID NO: 39692, or wherein the at least one 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a fragment of a nucleic acid sequence which has an identity of at least about 40%, preferably of at least about 50%, preferably of at least about 60%, preferably of at least about 70%, more preferably of at least about 80%, more preferably of at least about 90%, even more preferably of at least about 95%, even more preferably of at least about 99% to the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39691, or more preferably to a corresponding RNA sequence, such as SEQ ID NO: 39692, wherein, preferably, the fragment is as described above, i.e. being a continuous stretch of nucleotides representing at least 20% etc. of the full-length 5′-UTR. Preferably, the fragment exhibits a length of at least about 20 nucleotides or more, preferably of at least about 30 nucleotides or more, more preferably of at least about 40 nucleotides or more. Preferably, the fragment is a functional fragment as described herein.

In some embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a vertebrate TOP gene, such as a mammalian, e.g. a human TOP gene, selected from RPSA, RPS2, RPS3, RPS3A, RPS4, RPS5, RPS6, RPS7, RPS8, RPS9, RPS10, RPS11, RPS12, RPS13, RPS14, RPS5, RPS15A, RPS16, RPS17, RPS18, RPS19, RPS20, RPS21, RPS23, RPS24, RPS25, RPS26, RP327, RPS27A, RPS28, RPS29, RPS30, RPL3, RPL4, RPL5, RPL6, RPL7, RPL7A, RPL8, RPL9, RPL10, RPL10A, RPL11, RPL12, RPL13, RPL13A, RPL14, RPL15, RPL17, RPL18, RPL18A, RPL19, RPL21, RPL22, RPL23, RPL23A, RPL24, RPL26, RPL27, RPL27A, RPL28, RPL29, RPL30, RPL31, RPL32, RPL34, RPL35, RPL35A, RPL36, RPL36A, RPL37, RPL37A, RPL38, RPL39, RPL40, RPL41, RPLP0, RPLP1, RPLP2, RPLP3, RPLP0, RPLP1, RPLP2, EEF1A1, EEF1B2, EEF1D, EEF1G, EEF2, EIF3E, EIF3F, EIF3H, EIF2S3, EIF3C, EIF3K, EIF3EIP, EIF4A2, PABPC1, HNRNPA1, TPT1, TUBB1, UBA52, NPM1, ATP5G2, GNB2L1, NME2, UQCRB, or from a homolog or variant thereof, wherein preferably the 5′-UTR element does not comprise a TOP-motif or the STOP of said genes, and wherein optionally the 5′-UTR element starts at its 5′-end with a nucleotide located at position 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 downstream of the 5′-terminal oligopyrimidine tract (TOP) and wherein further optionally the 5′-UTR element which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene terminates at its 3′-end with a nucleotide located at position 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 upstream of the start codon (A(U/T)G) of the gene it is derived from.

According to a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal Large protein (RPL), preferably RPL32 or RPL35A, or from a gene selected from the group consisting of HSD17134, ATP5A1, AIG1, ASAH1, COX6C or ABCB7 (also referred to herein as MDR), or from a homolog, a fragment or variant of any one of these genes, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

In further particularly preferred embodiments, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a ribosomal protein Large 32 gene (RPL32), a ribosomal protein Large 35 gene (RPL35), a ribosomal protein Large 21 gene (RPL21), an ATP synthase, H+ transporting, mitochondrial F1 complex, alpha subunit 1, cardiac muscle (ATP5A1) gene, an hydroxysteroid (17-beta) dehydrogenase 4 gene (HSD17B4), an androgen-induced 1 gene (AIG1), cytochrome c oxidase subunit Vlc gene (COX6C), a N-acylsphingosine amidohydrolase (acid ceramidase) 1 gene (ASAH1), or an ATP-Binding Cassette, Sub-Family B (MDR/TAP), Member 7 gene (ABCB7), or from a variant thereof, preferably from a vertebrate ribosomal protein Large 32 gene (RPL32), a vertebrate ribosomal protein Large 35 gene (RPL35), a vertebrate ribosomal protein Large 21 gene (RPL21), a vertebrate ATP synthase, H+ transporting, mitochondrial F1 complex, alpha subunit 1, cardiac muscle (ATP5A1) gene, a vertebrate hydroxysteroid (17-beta) dehydrogenase 4 gene (HSD1784), a vertebrate androgen-induced 1 gene (AIG1), a vertebrate cytochrome c oxidase subunit VIc gene (COX6C), a vertebrate N-acylsphingosine amidohydrolase (acid ceramidase) 1 gene (ASAH1), or a vertebrate ATP-Binding Cassette, Sub-Family B (MDR/TAP), Member 7 gene (ABCB7), or from a variant thereof, mare preferably from a mammalian ribosomal protein Large 32 gene (RPL32), a ribosomal protein Large 35 gene (RPL35), a ribosomal protein Large 21 gene (RPL21), a mammalian ATP synthase, H+ transporting, mitochondrial F1 complex, alpha subunit 1, cardiac muscle (ATP5A1) gene, a mammalian hydroxysteroid (17-beta) dehydrogenase 4 gene (HSD17B4), a mammalian androgen-induced 1 gene (AIG1), a mammalian cyto-chrome c oxidase subunit VIc gene (COX6C), a mammalian N-acylsphingosine ami-dohydrolase (acid ceramidase) 1 gene (ASAH1), or a mammalian ATP-Binding Cassette, Sub-Family B (MDR/TAP), Member 7 gene (ABCB7), or from a variant thereof, most preferably from a human ribosomal protein Large 32 gene (RPL32), a human ribosomal protein Large 35 gene (RPL35), a human ribosomal protein Large 21 gene (RPL21), a human ATP synthase, H+ transporting, mitochondrial F1 complex, alpha subunit 1, cardiac muscle (ATP5A1) gene, a human hydroxysteroid (17-beta) dehydrogenase 4 gene (HS017B4), a human androgen-induced 1 gene (AIG1), a human cytochrome c oxidase subunit VIc gene (COX6C), a human N-acylsphingosine amidohydrolase (acid ceramidase) 1 gene (ASAH1), or a human ATP-Binding Cassette, Sub-Family B (MDR/TAP), Member 7 gene (ABCB7), or from a variant thereof, wherein preferably the 5′-UTR element does not comprise the 5′TOP of said gene.

Accordingly, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which has an identity of at least about 40%, preferably of at least about 50%, preferably of at least about 60%, preferably of at least about 70%, more preferably of at least about 80%, more preferably of at least about 90%, even more preferably of at least about 95%, even more preferably of at least about 99% to the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1368, or SEQ ID NOs: 1412-1420 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, or a corresponding RNA sequence, or wherein the at least one 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a fragment of a nucleic acid sequence which has an identity of at least about 40%, preferably of at least about 50%, preferably of at least about 60%, preferably of at least about 70%, more preferably of at least about 80%, more preferably of at least about 90%, even more preferably of at least about 95%, even more preferably of at least about 99% to the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1368, or SEQ ID NOs: 1412-1420 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, wherein, preferably, the fragment is as described above, i.e. being a continuous stretch of nucleotides representing at least 20% etc. of the full-length 5′-UTR. Preferably, the fragment exhibits a length of at least about 20 nucleotides or more, preferably of at least about 30 nucleotides or more, more preferably of at least about 40 nucleotides or more. Preferably, the fragment is a functional fragment as described herein.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 5′-UTR comprising at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element, wherein the heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39691 to SEQ ID NO: 39694, or a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof. Preferably, the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which has an identity of at least about 40%, preferably of at least about 50%, preferably of at least about 60%, preferably of at least about 70%, more preferably of at least about 80%, more preferably of at least about 90%, even more preferably of at least about 95%, even more preferably of at least about 99% to a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NO: 39691 to SEQ ID NO: 39694.

According to a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR). More preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises a 3′-UTR comprising or consisting of at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element, preferably as defined herein.

Poly(A) Sequence and Poly(C) Sequence:

According to a further preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably the 3′-UTR, may contain a poly-A tail of typically about 10 to 200 adenosine nucleotides, preferably about 10 to 100 adenosine nucleotides, more preferably about 40 to 80 adenosine nucleotides or even more preferably about 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides.

Preferably, the poly(A) sequence in the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, is derived from a DNA template by in vitro transcription. Alternatively, the poly(A) sequence may also be obtained in vitro by common methods of chemical-synthesis without being necessarily transcribed from a DNA progenitor. Moreover, poly(A) sequences, or poly(A) tails may be generated by enzymatic polyadenylation of the RNA according to the present invention using commercially available polyadenylation kits and corresponding protocols known in the art, or using immobilized poly(A)polymerases e.g. in a polyadenylation reactor (WO 2016/174271).

Alternatively, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, optionally comprises a polyadenylation signal, which is defined herein as a signal, which conveys polyadenylation to a (transcribed) mRNA by specific protein factors (e.g. cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor (CPSF), cleavage stimulation factor (CstF), cleavage factors I and II (CF I and CF II), poly(A) polymerase (PAP)). In this context, a consensus polyadenylation signal is preferred comprising the NN(U/T)ANA consensus sequence. In a particularly preferred aspect, the polyadenylation signal comprises one of the following sequences: AA(U/T)AAA or A(U/T)(U/T)AAA (wherein uridine is usually present in RNA and thymidine is usually present in DNA).

According to a further preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention, preferably the 3′-UTR of the artificial nucleic acid, may contain a poly-C tail of typically about 10 to 200 cytosine nucleotides, preferably about 10 to 100 cytosine nucleotides, more preferably about 20 to 70 cytosine nucleotides or even more preferably about 20 to 60 or even 10 to 40 cytosine nucleotides.

3′-UTRs:

In a further preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention further comprises at least one 3′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence derived from the 3′-UTR of a chordate gene, preferably a vertebrate gene, more preferably a mammalian gene, most preferably a human gene, or from a variant of the 3′-UTR of a chordate gene, preferably a vertebrate gene, more preferably a mammalian gene, most preferably a human gene.

The term “3′-UTR element” refers to a nucleic acid sequence, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence that is derived from a 3′-UTR or from a variant of a T-UTR. A 3′-UTR element in the sense of the present invention may represent the 3′-UTR on a DNA or on an RNA level. Thus, in the sense of the present invention, preferably, a 3′-UTR element may be the 3′-UTR of an mRNA, preferably of an artificial mRNA, or it may be the transcription template for a 3′-UTR of an mRNA. Thus, a 3′-UTR element preferably is a nucleic acid sequence, which corresponds to the 3′-UTR of an mRNA, preferably to the 3′-UTR of an artificial mRNA, such as an mRNA obtained by transcription of a genetically engineered vector construct. Preferably, the 3′-UTR element fulfils the function of a 3′-UTR or encodes a sequence, which fulfils the function of a 3′-UTR.

Preferably, the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 3′-UTR element comprising or consisting of a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of a gene, which preferably encodes a stable mRNA, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant of said gene. In particular, the 3′-UTR element may be derivable from a gene that relates to an mRNA with an enhanced half-life (that provides a stable mRNA), for example a 3′-UTR element as defined and described below.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence which is derived from a 3′-UTR of a gene selected from the group consisting of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, and a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant of a 3′-UTR of a gene selected from the group consisting of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, and a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene. More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence which is derived from a 3′-UTR of a gene selected from the group consisting of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, and a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant of a 3′-UTR of a gene selected from the group consisting of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, and a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene according to SEQ ID NOs: 1369-1390 of the patent application WO 2013/143700, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 3′-UTR of a vertebrate albumin gene or from a variant thereof, preferably from the 3′-UTR of a mammalian albumin gene or from a variant thereof, more preferably from the 3′-UTR of a human albumin gene or from a variant thereof, even more preferably from the 3′-UTR of the human albumin gene according to Genbank Accession number NM_000477.5, or from a fragment or variant thereof. More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39703, or SEQ ID NO: 39704 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO:1399 of the patent application WO 2013/143700), or a fragment, homolog or variant thereof.

Most preferably the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequence derived from a fragment of the human albumin gene according to SEQ ID NO: 39705, or SEQ ID NO: 39709 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1376 of the patent application WO 2013/143700), or a fragment, homolog or variant thereof. Further preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39707, or SEQ ID NO: 39708, (Albumin 7), or a fragment, homolog or variant thereof.

In another particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of an α-globin gene, preferably a vertebrate α- or β-globin gene, more preferably a mammalian α- or β-globin gene, most preferably a human α- or β-globin gene.

More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39695, or SEQ ID NO: 39696 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1370 of the patent application WO 2013/143700), or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof

Preferably, the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of Homo sapiens hemoglobin, alpha 1 (HBA1). More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39695, or SEQ ID NO: 39696 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1370 of the patent application WD 2013/143700), or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof.

In another embodiment, the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of Homo sapiens hemoglobin, alpha 2 (HBA2). More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39697 or SEQ ID NO: 39698 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1371 of the patent application WD 2013/143700), or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof.

According to another embodiment, the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of Homo sapiens hemoglobin, beta (HBB). More preferably, the 3′-UTR element comprises or consists of a nucleic acid according to SEQ ID NO: 39699, or SEQ ID NO: 39700 (corresponding to SEQ ID NO:1372 of the patent application WO 2013/143700), or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof.

The at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element may further comprise or consist of the center, α-complex-binding portion of the 3′-UTR of an α-globin gene, such as of a human α-globin gene, or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant of an α-globin gene, preferably according to SEQ ID NO: 39701 or SEQ ID NO: 39702 (also referred to herein as “muag”) (corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1393 of the patent application WO 2013/143700), or a humping, a fragment, or a variant thereof.

The term “a nucleic acid sequence which is derived from the 3′-UTR of a [ . . . ] gene” preferably refers to a nucleic acid sequence which is based on the 3′-UTR sequence of a [ . . . ] gene or on a part thereof, such as on the 3′-UTR of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a (β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, or a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene, preferably of an albumin gene or on a part thereof. This term includes sequences corresponding to the entire 3′-UTR sequence, i.e. the full length 3′-UTR sequence of a gene, and sequences corresponding to a fragment of the 3′-UTR sequence of a gene, such as an albumin gene, α-globin gene, β-globin gene, tyrosine hydroxylase gene, lipoxygenase gene, or collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene, preferably of an albumin gene.

The term “a nucleic acid sequence which is derived from a variant of the 3′-UTR of a [ . . . ] gene” preferably refers to a nucleic acid sequence, which is based on a variant of the 3′-UTR sequence of a gene, such as on a variant of the 3′-UTR of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a (β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, or a collagen alpha gene, such as a collagen alpha 1(I) gene, or on a part thereof as described above. This term includes sequences corresponding to the entire sequence of the variant of the 3′-UTR of a gene, i.e. the full length variant 3′-UTR sequence of a gene, and sequences corresponding to a fragment of the variant 3′-UTR sequence of a gene. A fragment in this context preferably consists of a continuous stretch of nucleotides corresponding to a continuous stretch of nucleotides in the full-length variant 3′-UTR, which represents at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, even more preferably at least 60%, even mare preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the full-length variant 3′-UTR. Such a fragment of a variant, in the sense of the present invention, is preferably a functional fragment of a variant as described herein.

Preferably, the at least one 5′-UTR element and the at least one 3′-UTR element act synergistically to increase protein production from the inventive artificial nucleic acid as described above.

Histone-Stem-Loop:

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid as described herein comprises a histone stem-loop sequence/structure (histone stem-loop). Such histone stem-loop sequences are preferably selected from histone stem-loop sequences as disclosed in WO 2012/019780, whose disclosure is incorporated herewith by reference.

A histone stem-loop sequence, suitable to be used within the present invention, is preferably selected from at least one of the following formulae (I) or (II):

formula (I) (stem-loop sequence without stem bordering elements):

formula (II) (stem-loop sequence with stem bordering elements):

wherein:

-   stem1 or stem2 bordering elements N₁₋₆ is a consecutive sequence of     1 to 6, preferably of 2 to 6, more preferably of 2 to 5, even more     preferably of 3 to 5, most preferably of 4 to 5 or 5 N, wherein each     N is independently from another selected from a nucleotide selected     from A, U, T, G and C, or a nucleotide analogue thereof; -   stem1 [N₀₋₂GN₃₋₅] is reverse complementary or partially reverse     complementary with element stem2, and is a consecutive sequence     between of 5 to 7 nucleotides;     -   wherein N₀₋₂ is a consecutive sequence of 0 to 2, preferably of         0 to 1, more preferably of 1 N, wherein each N is independently         from another selected from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G         and C or a nucleotide analogue thereof;     -   wherein N₃₋₅ is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5, preferably of         4 to 5, more preferably of 4 N, wherein each N is independently         from another selected from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G         and C or a nucleotide analogue thereof, and     -   wherein G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, and may be         optionally replaced by a cytidine or an analogue thereof,         provided that its complementary nucleotide cytidine in stem2 is         replaced by guanosine; -   loop sequence [N₀₋₄(U/T)N₀₋₄] is located between elements stem1 and     stem2, and is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5 nucleotides, more     preferably of 4 nucleotides;     -   wherein each N₀₋₄ is independent from another a consecutive         sequence of 0 to 4, preferably of 1 to 3, more preferably of 1         to 2 N, wherein each N is independently from another selected         from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G and C or a nucleotide         analogue thereof; and     -   wherein U/T represents uridine, or optionally thymidine; -   stem2 [N₃₋₅CN₀₋₂] is reverse complementary or partially reverse     complementary with element stem1, and is a consecutive sequence     between of 5 to 7 nucleotides;     -   wherein N₃₋₅ is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5, preferably of         4 to 5, more preferably of 4 N, wherein each N is independently         from another selected from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G         and C or a nucleotide analogue thereof;     -   wherein N₀₋₂ is a consecutive sequence of 0 to 2, preferably of         0 to 1, more preferably of 1 N, wherein each N is independently         from another selected from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G         or C or a nucleotide analogue thereof; and     -   wherein C is cytidine or an analogue thereof, and may be         optionally replaced by a guanosine or an analogue thereof         provided that its complementary nucleoside guanosine in stem1 is         replaced by cytidine;         wherein         stem1 and stem2 are capable of base pairing with each other         forming a reverse complementary sequence, wherein base pairing         may occur between stem1 and stem2, e.g. by Watson-Crick base         pairing of nucleotides A and U/T or G and C or by         non-Watson-Crick base pairing e.g. wobble base pairing, reverse         Watson-Crick base pairing, Hoogsteen base pairing, reverse         Hoogsteen base pairing or are capable of base pairing with each         other forming a partially reverse complementary sequence,         wherein an incomplete base pairing may occur between stem1 and         stem2, on the basis that one ore more bases in one stem do not         have a complementary base in the reverse complementary sequence         of the other stem.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the first inventive aspect, the inventive artificial nucleic acid may comprise at least one histone stem-loop sequence according to at least one of the following specific formulae (Ia) or (IIa):

formula (Ia) (stem-loop sequence without stem bordering elements):

formula (IIa) (stem-loop sequence with stem bordering elements):

wherein: N, C, G, T and U are as defined above.

According to a further more particularly preferred embodiment of the first aspect, the inventive artificial nucleic acid may comprise at least one histone stem-loop sequence according to at least one of the following specific formulae (Ib) or (IIb):

formula (Ib) (stem-loop sequence without stem bordering elements):

formula (IIb) (stem-loop sequence with stem bordering elements):

wherein: N, C, G, T and U are as defined above.

A particular preferred histone stem-loop sequence is the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709, or more preferably the corresponding RNA sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

Additional Peptide or Protein Elements:

According to other preferred embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode further peptide or protein elements that e.g., promote secretion of the protein (secretory signal peptides), promote anchoring of the encoded antigen in the plasma membrane (transmembrane domains), promote virus-like particle formation (VLP forming domains). In addition, the artificial nucleic acid sequence according to the present invention may additionally encode peptide linker elements, self-cleaving peptides or helper peptides.

According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid may additionally or alternatively encode a secretory signal peptide (signal sequence). Such signal peptides are sequences, which typically exhibit a length of about 10 to 30 amino acids and are preferably located at the N-terminus of the encoded peptide, without being limited thereto. Signal peptides as defined herein preferably allow the transport of the at least one protein encoded by the at least one coding region of the inventive artificial nucleic acid into a defined cellular compartment, preferably the cell surface, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or the endosomal-lysosomal compartment. Examples of secretory signal peptide sequences as defined herein include, without being limited thereto, signal sequences of classical or non-classical MHC-molecules (e.g. signal sequences of MHC I and II molecules, e.g. of the MHC class I molecule HLA-A*0201), signal sequences of cytokines or immunoglobulines as defined herein, signal sequences of the invariant chain of immunoglobulines or antibodies as defined herein, signal sequences of Lamp1, Tapasin, Erp57, Calretikulin, Calnexin, and further membrane associated proteins or of proteins associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or the endosomal-lysosomal compartiment. More preferably, signal sequences of MHC class 1 molecule HLA-A*0201 may be used according to the present invention.

According to other embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode at least one transmembrane domain element.

Transmembrane elements or membrane spanning polypeptide elements are present in proteins that are integrated or anchored in plasma membranes of cells. Typical transmembrane elements are alpha-helical transmembrane elements. Such transmembrane elements are composed essentially of amino acids with hydrophobic side chains, because the interior of a cell membrane (lipid bilayer) is also hydrophobic. From the structural perspective, transmembrane elements are commonly single hydrophobic alpha helices or beta barrel structures; whereas hydrophobic alpha helices are usually present in proteins that are present in membrane anchored proteins (e.g., seven transmembrane domain receptors), beta-barrel structures are often present in proteins that generate pores or channels.

For target proteins, such as antigenic peptides or proteins according to the present invention (derived from Norovirus) it may be beneficial to introduce a transmembrane element into the respective constructs. By addition of a transmembrane element to the target peptide/protein it may be possible to further enhance the immune response, wherein the translated target peptide/protein, e.g. a viral antigen, anchors to a target membrane, e.g. the plasma membrane of a cell, thereby increasing immune responses. This effect is also referred to as antigen clustering.

When used in combination with a polypeptide or protein of interest in the context of the present invention, such transmembrane element can be placed N-terminal or C-terminal to the Norovirus antigenic peptide or protein of interest. On nucleic acid level, the coding sequence for such transmembrane element is typically placed in frame (i.e. in the same reading frame), 5′ or 3′ to the coding sequence of the polypeptide as defined herein.

The transmembrane domain may be selected from the transmembrane domain of Hemagglutinin (HA) of Influenza virus, Env of HIV-1, EIAV (equine infectious anaemia virus), MLV (murine leukaemia virus), mouse mammary tumor virus, G protein of VSV (vesicular stomatitis virus), Rabies virus, or a transmembrane element of a seven transmembrane domain receptor.

According to other embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode at least one VLP forming domain.

VLPs are self-assembled viral structural proteins (envelope proteins or capsid proteins) that structurally resemble viruses (without containing viral genetic material). VLPs contain repetitive high density displays of antigens which present conformational epitopes that can elicit strong T cell and B cell immune responses.

When used in combination with a Norovirus antigenic peptide or protein in the context of the present invention, such VLP forming element can be placed N-terminal or C-terminal to the polypeptide of interest. On nucleic acid level, the coding sequence for such VLP forming element is typically placed in frame (i.e. in the same reading frame), 5′ or 3′ to the coding sequence of the polypeptide as defined herein.

For nucleic acid (e.g. RNA) encoding a polypeptide or protein of interest, particularly Norovirus antigenic polypeptides or proteins, it may be beneficial to introduce a VLP forming element into the respective constructs. In addition to the “clustering” of epitopes, an improved secretion of the VLP particle may also increase the immunogenicity of the respective antigen.

VLP forming elements fused to an antigen may generate virus like particles containing repetitive high density displays of antigens. Essentially, such VLP forming elements can be chosen from any viral or phage capsid or envelope protein.

According to another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode at least one peptide linker element.

In protein constructs composed of several elements (e.g., Norovirus antigenic peptide or protein fused to a transmembrane domain), the protein elements may be separated by peptide linker elements. Such elements may be beneficial because they allow for a proper folding of the individual elements and thereby the proper functionality of each element. Alternatively, the term “spacer” or “peptide spacer” is used herein.

When used in the context of the present invention, such linkers or spacers are particularly useful when encoded by a nucleic acid encoding at least two functional protein elements, such as at least one polypeptide or protein of interest (Norovirus antigens) and at least one further protein or polypeptide element (e.g., VLP forming domain, transmembrane domain). In that case, the linker is typically located on the polypeptide chain in between the polypeptide of interest and the at least one further protein element. On nucleic acid level, the coding sequence for such linker is typically placed in the reading frame, 5′ or 3′ to the coding sequence for the polypeptide or protein of interest, or placed between coding regions for individual polypeptide domains of a given protein of interest.

Peptide linkers are preferably composed of small, non-polar (e.g. Gly) or polar (e.g. Ser or Thr) amino acids. The small size of these amino acids provides flexibility, and allows for mobility of the connecting functional domains. The incorporation of Ser or Thr can maintain the stability of the linker in aqueous solutions by forming hydrogen bonds with the water molecules, and therefore reduces an interaction between the linker and the protein moieties. Rigid linkers generally maintain the distance between the protein domains and they may be based on helical structures and/or they have a sequence that is rich in praline. Cleavable linkers (also termed “cleavage linkers”) allow for in vivo separation of the protein domains. The mechanism of cleavage may be based e.g. on reduction of disulfide bonds within the linker sequence or proteolytic cleavage. The cleavage may be mediated by an enzyme (enzymatic cleavage), e.g. the cleavage linker may provide a protease sensitive sequence (e.g., furin cleavage).

A typical sequence of a flexible linker is composed of repeats of the amino acids Glycine (G) and Serine (S). For instance, the linker may have the following sequence: GS, GSG, SGG, SG, GGS, SGS, GSS, SSG. In some embodiments, the same sequence is repeated multiple times (e.g. two, three, four, five or six times) to create a longer linker. In other embodiments, a single amino acid residue such as S or G can be used as a linker.

Linkers or spacers may be used as additional elements to promote or improve the secretion of the target protein (Norovirus antigenic peptides or proteins).

According to other embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode at least one self-cleaving peptide.

Viral self-cleaving peptides (2A peptides) allow the expression of multiple proteins from a single open reading frame. The terms 2A peptide and 2A element are used interchangeably herein. The mechanism by the 2A sequence for generating two proteins from one transcript is by ribosome skipping—a normal peptide bond is impaired at 2A, resulting in two discontinuous protein fragments from one translation event.

When used in the context of the present invention, such 2A peptides are particularly useful when encoded by a nucleic acid encoding at least two functional protein elements (e.g. two Norovirus antigenic peptides or proteins). In general, a 2A element is useful when the nucleic acid molecule encodes at least one polypeptide or protein of interest and at least one further protein element. In a preferred embodiment, a 2A element is present when the polynucleotide of the invention encodes two proteins or polypeptides of interest, e.g. two antigens.

The coding sequence for such 2A peptide is typically located in between the coding sequence of the polypeptide of interest and the coding sequence of the least one further protein element (which may also be a polypeptide of interest), so that cleavage of the 2A peptide leads to two separate polypeptide molecules, at least one of them being a polypeptide or protein of interest.

For example, for expressing target proteins (Norovirus antigenic peptides or proteins) that are composed of several polypeptide chains it may be beneficial to provide coding information for both polypeptide chains on a single nucleic acid molecule, separated by a nucleic acid sequence encoding a 2A peptide. 2A peptides may also be beneficial when cleavage of the protein of interest from another encoded polypeptide element is desired.

2A peptides may be derived from foot-and-mouth diseases virus, from equine rhinitis A virus, Thosea asigna virus, Porcine teschovirus-1.

According to other embodiments, the artificial nucleic acid sequence, particularly the RNA sequence according to the invention may additionally encode at least one helper peptide.

In essence, helper peptides binds to class II MHC molecules as a nonspecific vaccine helper epitope (adjuvant) and induces an increased (and long term) immune response by increasing the helper T-cell response. In an embodiment, such a helper peptide may be N-terminally and/or C-terminally fused to the antigenic peptide or protein derived from Norovirus.

mRNA Structures:

Any of the above modifications may be applied to the artificial nucleic acid of the present invention, and further to any nucleic acid as used in the context of the present invention and may be, if suitable or necessary, be combined with each other in any combination, provided, these combinations of modifications do not interfere with each other in the artificial nucleic acid. A person skilled in the art will be able to take his choice accordingly.

The artificial nucleic acid as defined herein, may preferably comprise a 5′-UTR, a coding region encoding the at least one polypeptide comprising at least one Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment, variant or derivative thereof; and/or a 3′-UTR preferably containing at least one histone stem-loop. The 3′-UTR of the artificial nucleic acid preferably comprises also a poly(A) and/or a poly(C) sequence as defined herewithin. The single elements of the 3′-UTR may occur therein in any order from 5′ to 3′ along the sequence of the artificial nucleic acid. In addition, further elements as described herein, may also be contained, such as a stabilizing sequence as defined herewithin (e.g. derived from the UTR of a globin gene), IRES sequences, etc. Each of the elements may also be repeated in the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention at least once (particularly in di- or multicistronic constructs), preferably twice or more. As an example, the single elements may be present in the artificial nucleic acid in the following order:

5′-coding region-histone stem-loop-poly(A)/(C) sequence-3′; or

5′-coding region-poly(A)/(C) sequence-histone stem-loop-3′; or

5′-coding region-histone stem-loop-polyadenylation signal-3′; or

5′-coding region-polyadenylation signal-histone stem-loop-3′; or

5′-coding region-histone stem-loop-histone stem-loop-poly(A)/(C) sequence-3′; or

5′-coding region-histone stem-loop-histone stem-loop-polyadenylation signal-3′; or

5′-coding region-stabilizing sequence-poly(A)/(C) sequence-histone stem-loop-3′; or

5′-coding region-stabilizing sequence-poly(A)/(C) sequence-poly(A)/(C) sequence-histone stem-loop-3′; etc.

In this context, it is particularly preferred that if, in addition to the at least one encoded polypeptide defined herein, a further peptide or protein is encoded by the artificial nucleic acid the encoded peptide or protein is preferably no histone protein, no reporter protein (e.g. Luciferase, GFP, EGFP, β-Galactosidase, particularly EGFP) and/or no marker or selection protein (e.g. alpha-Globin, Galactokinase and Xanthine:Guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (GPT)). In a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention does not comprise a reporter gene or a marker gene. Preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention does not encode, for instance, luciferase; green fluorescent protein (GFP) and its variants (such as eGFP, RFP or BFP); α-globin; hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT); β-galactosidase; galactokinase; alkaline phosphatase; secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP)) or a resistance gene (such as a resistance gene against neomycin, puromycin, hygromycin and zeocin). In a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention does not encode luciferase. In another embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention does not encode GFP or a variant thereof.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprises or consists of, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally, a 5′-cap structure (cap0, cap1, cap2), preferably         m7GpppN,     -   b) a coding region encoding at least one protein comprising at         least one Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment         or variant thereof,     -   c) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   d) optionally a poly(C) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   e) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

More preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises or consists of, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally, a 5′-cap structure (cap0, cap1, cap2), preferably         m7GpppN,     -   b) a coding region encoding at least one protein comprising at         least one Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment         or variant thereof,     -   c) a 3′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is         derived from an α-globin gene, preferably comprising the         corresponding RNA sequence of the nucleic acid sequence         according to SEQ ID NO: 39701, or SEQ ID NO: 39702, or a         homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof,     -   d) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   e) optionally a poly(C) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   f) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment the RNA sequence according to the invention comprises, preferably in 5′- to 3′-direction:

-   -   a) a 5′-cap structure (cap0, cap1, cap2), preferably m7GpppN;     -   b) a 5′-UTR element which comprises or consists of a nucleic         acid sequence corresponding to a nucleic acid sequence according         to SEQ ID NO: 39691, or SEQ ID NO: 39692, or SEQ ID NO: 39693,         or SEQ ID NO: 39694, a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof;     -   c) at least one coding sequence according to any one of SEQ ID         NOs: 8821-39690, 39717, and/or 39730 or a variant or fragment         thereof encoding at least one antigenic peptide or protein         derived from a Norovirus protein or peptide or a fragment or         variant thereof according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410,         preferably comprising or consisting of any one of the nucleic         acid sequences according to, or a fragment or variant thereof,     -   d) a 3′-UTR element comprising or consisting of a nucleic acid         sequence which is derived from a gene providing a stable RNA,         preferably comprising or consisting of the corresponding to a         nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39707, or SEQ ID         NO: 39708, or SEQ ID NO: 39703, or SEQ ID NO: 39704, a homolog,         a fragment or a variant thereof;     -   e) optionally, a poly(A) sequence preferably comprising 64         adenosines; and     -   f) optionally, a poly(C) sequence, preferably comprising 3D         cytosines.

More preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention comprises or consists of, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally, a 5′-cap structure (cap0, cant cap2), preferably         m7GpppN,     -   b) a 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic         acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene,         preferably comprising a nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ         ID NO: 39691 to SEQ ID NO: 39694, or a homolog, a fragment or a         variant thereof,     -   c) a coding sequence encoding at least one protein comprising at         least one Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment         or variant thereof,     -   d) a 3′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is         derived from an albumin gene, preferably comprising the         corresponding RNA sequence of the nucleic acid sequence         according to SEQ ID NO: 39705, or SEQ ID NO: 39706, or a         homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof,     -   e) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   f) optionally a poly(S) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   g) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

In some embodiments, the at least one coding region of the artificial nucleic acid according to the present invention comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding a molecular tag. More preferably, the molecular tag is selected from the group consisting of a FLAG tag, a glutathione-S-transferase (GST) tag, a His tag, a Myc tag, an E tag, a Strep tag, a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag and an HA tag.

In particularly preferred embodiments the mRNA sequence according to the invention comprises the following mRNA sequences (or RNA sequences being identical or at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the following RNA sequences):

-   -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4.1131693-USA-2003;         SEQ ID NO: 39713.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003;         SEQ ID NO: 39714.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003;         SEQ ID NO: 39715.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003;         SEQ ID NO: 39716.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4-031693-USA-2003;         SEQ ID NO: 39717.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 Farmington         Hills-2002-USA; SEQ ID NO: 39718.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 Farmington         Hills-2002-USA; SEQ ID NO: 39719.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 Farmington         Hills-2002-USA; SEQ ID NO: 39720.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 Farmington         Hills-2002-USA; SEQ ID NO: 39721.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968; SEQ ID NO:         39722.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968; SEQ ID NO:         39723.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968; SEQ ID NO:         39724.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GI.1-USA-1968; SEQ ID NO:         39725.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 2006b         092895-USA-2008; SEQ ID NO: 39726.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 2006b         092895-USA-2008; SEQ ID NO: 39727.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 2006b         092895-USA-2008; SEQ ID NO: 39728.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 2006b         092895-USA-2008; SEQ ID NO: 39729.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 2006b         092895-USA-2008; SEQ ID NO: 39730.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4         GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011; SEQ ID NO: 39731.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4         GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011; SEQ ID NO: 39732.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4         GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011; SEQ ID NO: 39733.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4         G2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011; SEQ ID NO: 39734.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 USA-1997; SEQ ID         NO: 39735.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 USA-1997: SEQ ID         NO: 39736.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 USA-1997; SEQ ID         NO: 39737.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.4 USA-1997; SEQ ID         NO: 39738.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus Melksham; SEQ ID NO:         39739.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus Melksham; SEQ ID NO:         39740.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus Melksham; SEQ ID NO:         39741.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus Melksham; SEQ ID NO:         39742.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.2-Vaals87-2005-NL;         SEQ ID NO: 39743.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.2-Vaals87-2005-NL;         SEQ ID NO: 39744.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.2-Vaals87-2005-NL;         SEQ ID NO: 39745.     -   mRNA encoding VP1 protein of Norovirus GII.2-Vaals87-2005-NL;         SEQ ID NO: 39746.

RNA Production:

The artificial nucleic acid according to the invention may be prepared by using any suitable method known in the art, including synthetic methods such as e.g. solid phase synthesis, as well as recombinant and in vitro methods, such as in vitro transcription reactions.

In a preferred embodiment, a linear DNA template is transcribed in vitro using DNA dependent T7 RNA polymerase in the presence of a nucleotide mixture and cap analog (m7GpppG) under suitable buffer conditions. In a particularly preferred embodiment, RNA production is performed under current good manufacturing practice, implementing various quality control steps, e.g. according to WO 2016/180430. The obtained RNAs are HPLC purified using PureMessenger® (CureVac, Tübingen, Germany; WO 2008/077592). In a preferred embodiment, purified RNA product is lyophilized according to WO 2016/165831 to yield a temperature stable Norovirus artificial nucleic acid. For the production of polyvalent Norovirus compositions, methods as disclosed in the PCT application PCT/EP2016/082487 are preferably used and adapted accordingly.

Composition:

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid as described herein and a suitable carrier, preferably a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The inventive composition comprising the artificial nucleic acid as described herein is preferably a (pharmaceutical) composition or a vaccine as described herein.

The inventive composition may comprise either only one type of artificial nucleic acid or at least two different artificial nucleic acids. In particular, the inventive composition may comprise at least two artificial nucleic acids as described herein, wherein each of the at least two artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising a different one of the Norovirus proteins as described herein, or a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins. Alternatively, the composition may comprise at least two artificial nucleic acids as described herein, wherein each of the at least two artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at least two different Norovirus proteins as described herein, or a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins. In another embodiment, the composition may also comprise at least two different artificial nucleic acids, which are bi- or multicistronic nucleic acids as described herein and wherein each of the artificial nucleic acids encodes at least two polypeptides, each comprising at least one Norovirus protein, or a fragment or variant thereof.

Preferably, the inventive composition comprises or consists of at least one artificial nucleic acid as described herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The expression “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” as used herein preferably includes the liquid or non-liquid basis of the inventive composition, which is preferably a pharmaceutical composition or a vaccine. If the inventive composition is provided in liquid form, the carrier will preferably be water, typically pyrogen-free water; isotonic saline or buffered (aqueous) solutions, e.g phosphate, citrate etc. buffered solutions. Water or preferably a buffer, more preferably an aqueous buffer, may be used, containing a sodium salt, preferably at least 50 mM of a sodium salt, a calcium salt, preferably at least 0.01 mM of a calcium salt, and optionally a potassium salt, preferably at least 3 mM of a potassium salt. According to a preferred embodiment, the sodium, calcium and, optionally, potassium salts may occur in the form of their halogenides, e.g. chlorides, iodides, or bromides, in the form of their hydroxides, carbonates, hydrogen carbonates, or sulfates, etc. Without being limited thereto, examples of sodium salts include e.g. NaCL, NaI, NaBr, Na₂CO₃, NaHCO₃, Na₂SO₄, examples of the optional potassium salts include e.g. KCl, KI, KBr, K₂CO₃, KHCO₃, K₂SO₄, and examples of calcium salts include e.g. CaCl₂, CaIz, CaBr₂, CaCO₃, CaSO₄, Ca(OH)₂. Furthermore, organic anions of the aforementioned cations may be contained in the buffer.

Furthermore, one or more compatible solid or liquid fillers or diluents or encapsulating compounds may be used as well, which are suitable for administration to a person. The term “compatible” as used herein means that the constituents of the inventive composition are capable of being mixed with the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the composition, in such a manner that no interaction occurs, which would substantially reduce the biological activity or the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the inventive composition under typical use conditions. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, fillers and diluents must, of course, have sufficiently high purity and sufficiently low toxicity to make them suitable for administration to a person to be treated. Some examples of compounds which can be used as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, fillers or constituents thereof are sugars, such as, for example, lactose, glucose, trehalose and sucrose; starches, such as, for example, corn starch or potato starch; dextrose; cellulose and its derivatives, such as, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth; malt; gelatin; tallow; solid gliddants, such as, for example, stearic acid, magnesium stearate; calcium sulfate; vegetable oils, such as, for example, groundnut oil, cottonseed oil, sesame oil, olive oil, corn oil and oil from theobroma; polyols, such as, for example, polypropylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; alginic acid.

Further additives which may be included in the inventive composition are emulsifiers, such as, far example, Tween; wetting agents, such as, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate; colouring agents; taste-imparting agents, pharmaceutical carriers; tablet-forming agents; stabilizers; antioxidants; preservatives.

In another embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids of the invention, wherein each of the at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids of the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising a Norovirus protein, and/or a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins, wherein each coding region preferably encodes a different Norovirus protein, more preferably each coding region encodes a capsid protein, preferably VP1 of a different Norovirus.

In another embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 5051, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids of the invention, wherein each of the at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 5051, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids of the invention comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at least two different Norovirus proteins, preferably VP1 and VP2, and/or a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins.

In a preferred embodiment, the inventive composition, which is preferably a pharmaceutical composition or a vaccine, comprises at least one artificial nucleic acid as described herein, wherein the at least one artificial nucleic acid is complexed at least partially with a cationic or polycationic compound and/or a polymeric carrier, preferably a cationic protein or peptide. Accordingly, in a further embodiment of the invention it is preferred that the at least one artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or any other nucleic acid comprised in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine is associated with or complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound or a polymeric carrier, optionally in a weight ratio selected from a range of about 6:1 (w/w) to about 0.25:1 (w/w), more preferably from about 5:1 (w/w) to about 0.5:1 (w/w), even more preferably of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w) or of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w), and most preferably a ratio of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 2:1 (w/w) of the artificial nucleic acid or any other nucleic acid to cationic or polycationic compound and/or with a polymeric carrier: or optionally in a nitrogen/phosphate (NIP) ratio of the artificial nucleic acid or any other nucleic acid to cationic or polycationic compound and/or polymeric carrier in the range of about 0.1-10, preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 or 0.3-1, and most preferably in a range of about 0.5-1 or 0.7-1, and even most preferably in a range of about 0.3-0.9 or 0.5-0.9. More preferably, the N/P ratio of the at least one artificial nucleic acid to the one or more polycations is in the range of about 0.1 to 10, including a range of about 0.3 to 4, of about 0.5 to 2, of about 0.7 to 2 and of about 0.7 to 1.5.

In another embodiment, the composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid of the invention is defined as follows:

-   -   (i) the ratio of complexed nucleic acid to free nucleic acid is         selected from a range of about 5:1 (w/w) to about 1:10 (w/w),         more preferably from a range of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:3         (w/w), even more preferably from a range of about 3:1 (w/w) to         about 1:5 (w/w) or 1:3 (w/w), wherein the ratio is most         preferably about 1:1 (w/w): or     -   (ii) the mRNA is complexed with one or more cationic or         polycationic compounds in a weight ratio selected from a range         of about 6:1 (w/w) to about 0.25:1 (w/w), more preferably from         about 5:1 (w/w) to about 0.5:1 (w/w), even more preferably of         about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w:w) or of about 3:1 (w/w) to         about 1:1 (w/w), and most preferably a ratio of about 3:1 (w/w)         to about 2:1 (w/w) of mRNA to cationic or polycationic compound         and/or with a polymeric carrier: or optionally in a         nitrogen/phosphate ratio of mRNA to cationic or polycationic         compound and/or polymeric carrier in the range of about 0.1-10,         preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 or 0.3-1, and most         preferably in a range of about 0.5-1 or 0.7-1, and even most         preferably in a range of about 0.3-0.9 or 0.5-0.9;     -   and/or wherein the at least one artificial nucleic acid or mRNA         is complexed with one or more cationic or polycationic         compounds, preferably with cationic or polycationic polymers,         cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, e.g. protamine,         cationic or polycationic polysaccharides and/or cationic or         polycationic lipids and/or wherein the at least one artificial         nucleic acid or mRNA is complexed with one or more lipids and         thereby forming liposomes, lipid nanoparticles and/or         lipoplexes.

Preferably, the inventive composition comprises at least one artificial nucleic acid as described herein, which is complexed with one or more polycations and/or a polymeric carrier, and at least one free nucleic acid, wherein the at least one complexed nucleic acid is preferably identical to the at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the present invention. In this context it is particularly preferred that the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the inventive composition is complexed at least partially with a cationic or polycationic compound and/or a polymeric carrier, preferably cationic proteins or peptides. In this context, the disclosure of WO 2010/037539 and WO 2012/113513 is incorporated herewith by reference. Partially means that only a part of the inventive artificial nucleic acid is complexed with a cationic compound and that the rest of the inventive artificial nucleic acid is (comprised in the inventive pharmaceutical composition or vaccine) in uncomplexed form (“free”).

In a further embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises

-   -   (i) at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more artificial         nucleic acids as defined in the invention; or     -   (ii) at least 10, 15, 20 or 50 artificial nucleic acids as         defined in the invention; or     -   (iii) 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 artificial         nucleic acids as defined in the invention; and a         pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In one embodiment, the compositions and/or vaccines of the invention comprise artificial nucleic acids encoding one or more capsid proteins VP1 derived from one or more Noroviruses. In another embodiment, the compositions and/or vaccines of the invention comprise artificial nucleic acids encoding one or more capsid proteins VP2 derived from one or more Noroviruses.

In another embodiment, the composition of the invention is further defined as composition, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 50, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GI Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GII         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 56, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GIII Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GIII Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or mare different GIII Noroviruses;         or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GIV         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GIV Noroviruses; or     -   (v) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GV         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 59, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GV Noroviruses; or     -   (vi) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus and additionally from a single GII Norovirus, GIII         Norovirus, GIV Norovirus and/or GU Norovirus; or     -   (vii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or mare different GI Noroviruses and         additionally from a single 911, GIII, GIV or GV Norovirus and/or         from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18,         19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34,         35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50,         51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66,         67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82,         83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98,         99, 100 and/or mare GII, GIII, GIV or GV Noroviruses.

In a further embodiment, the composition of the invention further is defined as composition, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GII.4 Noroviruses;         or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GI.1 Norovirus and additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus;         or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses and         additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         GII.4 Noroviruses.

In a further embodiment, the composition of the invention further is defined as composition, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or mare different GII.4 Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GII.4 Noroviruses;         or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GI.1 Norovirus and additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus;         or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,         63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78,         79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94,         95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses and         additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         GII.4 Noroviruses; and/or     -   wherein     -   (i) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39690, 39713-39746; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%,         67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         nucleic acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NOs:         4411-39690, 39713-39746; and/or     -   (iii) at least one complement of the nucleic acid sequences         which are capable of hybridizing with a nucleic acid sequence         comprising a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NDs: 4411-39690,         39713-39746, and/or     -   (iv) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NOs:         4411-39690, 39713-39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.     -   and/or     -   wherein     -   (i) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO: 39746; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 68%,         67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         nucleic acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NO: 39713         to SEQ ID NO: 39746; and/or     -   (iii) at least one complement of the nucleic acid sequences         which are capable of hybridizing with a nucleic acid sequence         comprising a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO:         39746; and/or     -   (iv) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NO: 39713         to SEQ ID NO: 39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention further is defined as a composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition), wherein one of the two different nucleic acid sequences is derived from Norovirus GII.4 and one of the two different nucleic acid sequence is derived from Norovirus GI.1, wherein the one nucleic acid sequence of Norovirus 811.4 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences, and wherein the one nucleic acid sequence of Norovirus GI.1 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences. Preferably, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of one nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GII.4 selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39721, 39726-39742, and one nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GI.1 selected from SEQ ID NDs: 39722-39725.

In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39716 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39725 (Norovirus GI.1). In a further specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39721 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39725 (Norovirus GI.1). In a further specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39729 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39725 (Norovirus GI.1). In a further specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39734 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39725 (Norovirus GI.1). In a further specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39738 (Norovirus 811.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39725 (Norovirus GI.1).

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention further is defined as a composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) derived from Norovirus GII.4, wherein the two different nucleic acid sequences of Norovirus GII.4 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences. Preferably, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences derived from Norovirus GII.4 (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of one nucleic acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39721, 39726-39742.

In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39716 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39721 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39729 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39721 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39734 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39721 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39738 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39721 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39716 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39729 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39734 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39729 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39738 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39729 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39719 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39734 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39738 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39734 (Norovirus GII.4). In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising two different nucleic acid sequences (bivalent, divalent composition) comprises or consists of the nucleic acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 39719 (Norovirus GII.4) and SEQ ID NO: 39738 (Norovirus GII.4).

In further a preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention further is defined as a composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition), wherein each of the four different nucleic acid sequences is derived from Norovirus GII.4, wherein each of the four different nucleic of Norovirus GII.4 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences. Preferably, the composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition) comprises or consists of four nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GII.4 selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39721, 39726-39742.

In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition) comprises four of the nucleic acid sequences selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39716, 39721, 39729, 39734 or 39738.

In a further preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention is defined as a composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition), wherein at least one of the four different nucleic acid sequences is derived from Norovirus GII.4 and at least one of the four different nucleic acid sequence is derived from Norovirus GI.1, wherein the at least one of the four different nucleic of Norovirus GII.4 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences, and wherein the at least one of the four of nucleic acid sequence of Norovirus GI.1 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined herein and in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences.

In a further preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention is defined as a composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition), wherein three of the four different nucleic acid sequences are derived from Norovirus GII.4 and one of the four different nucleic acid sequence is derived from Norovirus GI.1, wherein the three of the four different nucleic of Norovirus GII.4 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences, and wherein the one of the four of nucleic acid sequence of Norovirus GI.1 may be any one of the nucleic acid sequences as defined in Table 1, or fragment or variants of these sequences. Preferably, the composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition) comprises or consists of three nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GII.4 selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39721, 39726-39742 and one nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GI.1 SEQ ID NOs: 39722-39725.

In a specific preferred embodiment, the composition comprising four different nucleic acid sequences (tetravalent composition) comprises three of the nucleic acid sequences derived from Norovirus GII.4 selected from SEQ ID NOs: 39716, 39721, 39729, 39734 or 39738 and one nucleic acid sequence derived from Norovirus GI.1 SEQ ID NO: 39725.

In further a preferred embodiments, the composition of the invention is defined as a composition comprising multiple different nucleic acid sequences (multivalent composition) defined as a composition comprising 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 different nucleic acid sequences derived from Norovirus GI.1, Norovirus GI.2, Norovirus GI.3, Norovirus GI.4, Norovirus GI.5, Norovirus GI.6, Norovirus GI.7, Norovirus GI.8, Norovirus GI.9, Norovirus GII.1, Norovirus GII.2, Norovirus GII.3, Norovirus GII.4, Norovirus GII.5, Norovirus GII.6, Norovirus GII.7, Norovirus GII.11, Norovirus GII.12, Norovirus GII.13, Norovirus GII.14, Norovirus GII.15, Norovirus GII.16, Norovirus GII.17, Norovirus GII.21, Norovirus GIII.1, Norovirus GV.1 or Norovirus GIV.1.

In further a preferred embodiments, the composition of the invention is defined as a composition comprising multiple different nucleic acid sequences (multivalent composition) defined as a composition comprising 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 different nucleic acid sequences selected from Table 3 (column 4 and column 5). In Table 3, each row (row 1-row 138) corresponds to selected Norovirus protein or antigen as identified by the respective name (first column, column 1 “Strain/Isolate”) and the database accession number of the corresponding protein (second column, column 2 “NCBI or Genbank Accession No.”). The third column, column 3 (“A”) in Table 3 indicates the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the respective amino acid sequence as provided herein. The SEQ ID NOs corresponding to the nucleic acid sequence of the wild type nucleic acid sequence encoding the Norovirus protein or peptide is indicated in the fourth column, column 4 (“B”). The fifth column, column 5 (“C”) provides the SEQ ID NOs corresponding to modified nucleic acid sequences of the nucleic acid sequences as described herein that encode the Norovirus protein or peptide preferably having the amino acid sequence as defined by the SEQ ID NOs indicated in the third column (“A”) or by the database entry indicated in the second column (“14981 or Genbank Accession No.”).

TABLE 3 Selected VP1 Norovirus sequences (row 1-row 138) column 2 NCBI or Genbank column 1 Accession column 3 column 4 column 5 Row Strain/Isolate No. A B C 1 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Dijon/E872/2002/FRA AC055068 2 4412 8822, 13232, 17642, 22052, 26462, 30872, 35282 2 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/MD120-12/1987/USA AFS33552 16 4426 8836, 13246, 17656, 22066, 26476, 30886, 35296 3 Norovirus Hu/GII.1/7EK/Hawaii/1971/USA AFS33555 17 4427 8837, 13247, 17657, 22067, 26477, 30887, 35297 4 Norovirus Hu/GII.6/CHDC4073/1984/USA AFX71665 27 4437 8847, 13257, 17667, 22077, 26487, 30897, 35307 5 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/19/2001/JPN BAI49904 327 4737 9147, 13557, 17967, 22377, 26787, 31197, 35607 6 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hiroshima/67/2006/JPN BAI49914 335 4745 9155, 13565, 17975, 22385, 26795, 31205, 35615 7 Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.Pe_GII.4/Osaka/OSF78 BAS02083 364 4774 9184, 13594, 18004, 22414, 26824, 31234, 35644 8 Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2012/GII.4/Groningen CRL46958 367 4777 9187, 13597, 18007, 22417, 26827, 31237, 35647 9 Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/2014/GII.2/Groningen CRL46973 372 4782 9192, 13602, 18012, 22422, 26832, 31242, 35652 10 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/New Orleans1500/2008/USA ADB27027 376 4786 9196, 13606, 18016, 22426, 26836, 31246, 35656 11 Norovirus Hu/GII.6/Ohio/490/2012/USA AGI96397 386 4796 9206, 13616, 18026, 22436, 26846, 31256, 35666 12 Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Jingzhou/2013402/CHN AGX01095 391 4801 9211, 13621, 18031, 22441, 26851, 31261, 35671 13 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Jingzhou/2013403/CHN AGX01098 392 4802 9212, 13622, 18032, 22442, 26852, 31262, 35672 14 Norovirus Hu/GII.17/Gaithersburg/2014/US AKI30060 393 4803 9213, 13623, 18033, 22443, 26853, 31263, 35673 15 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C127/GF/1978 AGL98413 404 4814 9224, 13634, 18044, 22454, 26864, 31274, 35684 16 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC3967/1988/US ACT76145 458 4868 9278, 13688, 18098, 22508, 26918, 31328, 35738 17 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4108/1987/US ACT76148 459 4869 9279, 13689, 18099, 22509, 26919, 31329, 35739 18 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC4871/1977/US ACT76151 460 4870 9280, 13690, 18100, 22510, 26920, 31330, 35740 19 Norovirus Hu/GII.3/CHDC5261/1990/US AED02034 501 4911 9321, 13731, 18141, 22551, 26961, 31371, 35781 20 Norovirus Hu/GII.3/Milwaukee009/2010/USA AEX10549 534 4944 9354, 13764, 18174, 22584, 26994, 31404, 35814 21 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Miranda/NSW817L/2010/AU AFJ2I448 597 5007 9417, 13827, 18237, 22647, 27057, 31467, 35877 22 Norovirus Hu/GII.2/KL109/MY/1978 AFN06726 603 5013 9423, 13833, 18243, 22653, 27063, 31473, 35883 23 Norovirus Hu/GII.14/HK74/CN/1978 AFN06727 604 5014 9424, 13834, 18244, 22654, 27064, 31474, 35884 24 Norovirus Hu/GII.7/HK4/CN/1976 AFN06731 608 5018 9428, 13838, 18248, 22658, 27068, 31478, 35888 25 Norovirus Hu/GII.17/C142/GF/1978 AFN06732 609 5019 9429, 13839, 18249, 22659, 27069, 31479, 35889 26 Norovirus Hu/GII.5/C15/GF/1978 AFN06733 610 5020 9430, 13840, 18250, 22660, 27070, 31480, 35890 27 Norovirus Hu/GI.5/E57/UG/1975 AFN06735 612 5022 9432, 13842, 18252, 22662, 27072, 31482, 35892 28 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Randwick/NSW882J/2011/AU AFV08771 616 5026 9436, 13846, 18256, 22666, 27076, 31486, 35896 29 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Berowra/NSW767L/2012/AU AFV08777 618 5028 9438, 13848, 18258, 22668, 27078, 31488, 35898 30 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Sydney/NSW0514/2012/AU AFV08795 624 5034 9444, 13854, 18264, 22674, 27084, 31494, 35904 31 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hong Kong/CUHK3630/2012/CHN AFX95940 625 5035 9445, 13855, 18265, 22675, 27085, 31495, 35905 32 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/VP1172/Shanghai/2012/CHN AGI99552 629 5039 9449, 13859, 18269, 22679, 27089, 31499, 35909 33 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/New Taipei/CGMH61/2012/TW AGK25912 644 5054 9464, 13874, 18284, 22694, 27104, 31514, 35924 34 Norovirus GII/Hu/HKG/2013/GII.4/CUHK-NS-141 AID68581 859 5269 9679, 14089, 18499, 22909, 27319, 31729, 36139 35 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2002/GII.P12_GII.13/Saitama/T80 AII73717 877 5287 9697, 14107, 18517, 22927, 27337, 31747, 36157 36 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2001/GII.P12_GII.12/Saitama/T15 AII73735 883 5293 9703, 14113, 18523, 22933, 27343, 31753, 36163 37 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P21_GII.21/Kawasaki/Y0284 AII73741 885 5295 9705, 14115, 18525, 22935, 27345, 31755, 36165 38 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P15_GII.15/Sapporo/HK299 AII73759 891 5301 9711, 14121, 18531, 22941, 27351, 31761, 36171 39 Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P3_GI.3/Shimizu/KK2866 AII73765 893 5303 9713, 14123, 18533, 22943, 27353, 31763, 36173 40 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2007/GII.P7_GII.14/Fukuoka/KK282 AII73780 898 5308 9718, 14128, 18538, 22948, 27358, 31768, 36178 41 Norovirus GI/Hu/JP/2007/GI.P8_GI.8/Nagoya/KY531 AII73783 899 5309 9719, 14129, 18539, 22949, 27359, 31769, 36179 42 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SJTUH1/CHN/2014 AIS40019 901 5311 9721, 14131, 18541, 22951, 27361, 31771, 36181 43 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/variant Sydney 2012/FRA AIY27747 930 5340 9750, 14160, 18570, 22980, 27390, 31800, 36210 44 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Hokkaido4/2006/JP BAG70437 1033 5443 9853, 14263, 18673, 23083, 27493, 31903, 36313 45 Norovirus GIV/Hu/Jp/2001/GIV.1/OCO1017023 BAU16306 1345 5755 10165, 14575, 18985, 23395, 27805, 32215, 36625 46 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Beijing/53671/2007/CHN ACY00615 1454 5864 10274, 14684, 19094, 23504, 27914, 32324, 36734 47 Norovirus Hu/II.4/2200661/HK/2010 ADK47170 1467 5877 10287, 14697, 19107, 23517, 27927, 32337, 36747 48 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Aichi368-14/2014 BAQ20801 1477 5887 10297, 14707, 19117, 23527, 27937, 32347, 36757 49 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Hunter 284E/040/AU AAZ31376 1552 5962 10372, 14782, 19192, 23602, 28012, 32422, 36832 50 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Osaka/1998/JPN ABI97981 1569 5979 10389, 14799, 19209, 23619, 28029, 32439, 36849 51 Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P774.Delsjo2004/Gothenburg/Sweden ABW74128 1610 6020 10430, 14840, 19250, 23660, 28070, 32480, 36890 52 Norovirus pig/GII.11/F18-10/2005/CAN ACC69023 1629 6039 10449, 14859, 19269, 23679, 28089, 32499, 36909 53 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Wellington/1995/USA ACL27297 1670 6080 10490, 14900, 19310, 23720, 28130, 32540, 36950 54 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Henry/2000/USA ACL27298 1671 6081 10491, 14901, 19311, 23721, 28131, 32541, 36951 55 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SSCS/2005/USA ACL27299 1672 6082 10492, 14902, 19312, 23722, 28132, 32542, 36952 56 Norovirus GII/Hu/IN/2006/GII.P4_GII.4_Yerseke2006a/Pune-PC21 ACL31322 1680 6090 10500, 14910, 19320, 23730, 28140, 32550, 36960 57 Norovirus Hu/GI.1/P7-587/2007/Stromstad/Sweden ACN32270 1692 6102 10512, 14922, 19332, 23742, 28152, 32562, 36972 58 Norovirus Hu/GI.2/Leuven/2003/BEL ACU56258 1698 6108 10518, 14928, 19338, 23748, 28158, 32568, 36978 59 Norovirus Hu/GII.7/NSW743L/2008/AUS ACX85810 1712 6122 10532.14942, 19352, 23762, 28172, 32582, 36992 60 Norovirus Hu/GII.2/NF2002/USA/2002 AFB18010 1731 6141 10551, 14961, 19371, 23781, 28191, 32601, 37011 61 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NF2003/USA/2003 AFB18013 1732 6142 10552, 14962, 19372, 23782, 28192, 32602, 37012 62 Norovirus Hu/GII.3/1999 AFK75854 1739 6149 10559, 14969, 19379, 23789, 28199, 32609, 37019 63 Norovirus Hu/GIV.1/Ahrenshoop246/DEU/2012 AFN61315 1740 6150 10560, 14970, 19380, 23790, 28200, 32610, 37020 64 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Xi'an/P19/2010/CHN AFQ00511 1741 6151 10561, 14971, 19381, 23791, 28201, 32611, 37021 65 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PA363/2011/ITA AHC12655 1770 6180 10590, 15000, 19410, 23820, 28230, 32640, 37050 66 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/P3/2012/Gothenburg/Sweden AHZ12912 1778 6188 10598, 15008, 19418, 23828, 28238, 32648, 37058 67 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Tanger/TM687/2011/MAR AIC32559 1787 6197 10607, 15017, 19427, 23837, 28247, 32657, 37067 68 Norovirus 12-X-2/2012/GII.P22/GII.5 AID51489 1793 6203 10613, 15023, 19433, 23843, 28253, 32663, 37073 69 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kobe034/2006/JP BAF45861 1826 6236 10646, 15056, 19466, 23876, 28286, 32696, 37106 70 Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Tiel001/1995/NL BAF74508 1827 6237 10647, 15057, 19467, 23877, 28287, 32697, 37107 71 Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/DenHaag015/2000/NL BAF74509 1828 6238 10648, 15058, 19468, 23878, 28288, 32698, 37108 72 Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Schiedam018/2001/NL BAF74512 1831 6241 10651, 15061, 19471, 23881, 28291, 32701, 37111 73 Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Apeldoorn023/2003/NL BAF74517 1836 6246 10656, 15066, 19476, 23886, 28296, 32706, 37116 74 Norovirus Hu/GGII.4/Middelburg007/2004/NL BAF74521 1840 6250 10660, 15070, 19480, 23890, 28300, 32710, 37120 75 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Matsudo/021071/2002/JP BAF95499 1847 6257 10667, 15077, 19487, 23897, 28307, 32717, 37127 76 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Kaiso/030556/2003/JP BAF95501 1848 6258 10668, 15078, 19488, 23898, 28308, 32718, 37128 77 Norovirus Hu/GII-4/Awa/040354/2004/JP BAF95505 1850 6260 10670, 15080, 19490, 23900, 28310, 32720, 37130 78 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Apeldoorn3l7/2007/NL BAG55289 1885 6295 10705, 15115, 19525, 23935, 28345, 32755, 37165 79 Norovirus Hu/GII.2/Rotterdam39E/2002/NL BAG68713 1891 6301 10711, 15121, 19531, 23941, 28351, 32761, 37171 80 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/RotterdamP200/2005/NL BAG68801 1897 6307 10717, 15127, 19537, 23947, 28357, 32767, 37177 81 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Stockholm/19865/2008/SE BAH30707 1916 6326 10736, 15146, 19556, 23966, 28376, 32786, 37196 82 Norovirus Hu/GII.6/OCO4062VLP/2004/JP BAL40873 1921 6331 10741, 15151, 19561, 23971, 28381, 32791, 37201 83 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS194/2009/US ADB27914 1961 6371 10781, 15191, 19601, 24011, 28421, 32831, 37241 84 Norovirus Hu/GII.12/HS210/2010/USA ADT70684 1965 6375 10785, 15195, 19605, 24015, 28425, 32835, 37245 85 Norovirus Hu/GI.1/8FIIa/1968/USA AFJ38516 1970 6380 10790, 15200, 19610, 24020, 28430, 32840, 37250 86 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/CHDC5191/1974/USA AFJ38519 1971 6381 10791, 15201, 19611, 24021, 28431, 32841, 37251 87 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/N76/2010/HuZhou AFW15943 1975 6385 10795, 15205, 19615, 24025, 28435, 32845, 37255 88 Norovirus Hu/GII.6/S9c/1976/SEN AGE99599 2000 6410 10820, 15230, 19640, 24050, 28460, 32870, 37280 89 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/KL45/1978/MYS AGE99612 2001 6411 10821, 15231, 19641, 24051, 28461, 32871, 37281 90 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC17.5/2012/USA AGT17839 2005 6415 10825, 15235, 19645, 24055, 28465, 32875, 37285 91 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/NIHIC9/2011/USA AFX71669 4198 8608 13018, 17428, 21838, 26248, 30658, 35068, 39478 92 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C110/1978/GUF AGE99607 4336 8746 13156, 17566, 21976, 26386, 30796, 35206, 39616 93 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/HS66/2001/USA AHI59166 4379 8789 13199, 17609, 22019, 26429, 30839, 35249, 39659 94 Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.P17_GII.17/Kawasaki308 BAR42290 4395 8805 13215, 17625, 22035, 26445, 30855, 35265, 39675 95 Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2014/GII.P17_GII.17/Nagano8-1 BAR63722 4399 8809 13219, 17629, 22039, 26449, 30859, 35269, 39679 96 Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2015/GII.Pe_GII.4/Osaka/OSF78 BAS02084 4400 8810 13220, 17630, 22040, 26450, 30860, 35270, 39680 97 Norovirus GI/Hu/NL/2011/GI.4/Groningan CRL46953 4401 8811 13221, 17631, 22041, 26451, 30861, 35271, 39681 98 Norovirus GII/Hu/NL/20l4/GII.4/Groningen01 CRL46962 4404 8814 13224, 17634, 22044, 26454, 30864, 35274, 39684 99 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Kenepuru/NZ327/2006/NZL ABQ63283 2018 6428 10838, 15248, 19658, 24068, 28478, 32888, 37298 100 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Rathmines/NSW287R/2007/AUS ACW19927 2023 6433 10843, 15253, 19663, 24073, 28483, 32893, 37303 101 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Turramurra/NSW892U/2009/AUS ADQ43783 2032 6442 10852, 15262, 19672, 24082, 28492, 32902, 37312 102 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0389/2009/KOR ADV37805 2033 6443 10853, 15263, 19673, 24083, 28493, 32903, 37313 103 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Seoul/0945/2009/KOR ADV37919 2038 6448 10858, 15268, 19678, 24088, 28498, 32908, 37318 104 Norovirus Hu/GII.12/Shelby/2009/USA AEI83469 2039 6449 10859, 15269, 19679, 24089, 28499, 32909, 37319 105 Norovirus Hu/GI.7/TCH-060/USA/2003 AEQ77282 2041 6451 10861, 15271, 19681, 24091, 28501, 32911, 37321 106 Norovirus Hu/GII.1/Ascension208/2010/USA AFA55174 2042 6452 10862, 15272, 19682, 24092, 28502, 32912, 37322 107 Norovirus Hu/GII.13/VA173/2010/USA AFC89656 2043 6453 10863, 15273, 19683, 24093, 28503, 32913, 37323 108 Norovirus Hu/GII.21/Salisbury150/2011/USA AFC89665 2046 6456 10866, 15276, 19686, 24096, 28506, 32916, 37326 109 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/1997/USA AFJ04707 2049 6459 10869, 15279, 19689, 24099, 28509, 32919, 37329 110 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Farmington Hills/2004/USA AFJ04708 2050 6460 10870, 15280, 19690, 24100, 28510, 32920, 37330 111 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Minerva/2006/USA AFJ04709 2051 6461 10871, 15281, 19691, 24101, 28511, 32921, 37331 112 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Ohio/71/2012/USA AFP89593 2052 6462 10872, 15282, 19692, 24102, 28512, 32922, 37332 113 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaE1065/2011/CA AFU55731 2068 6478 10888, 15298, 19708, 24118, 28528, 32938, 37348 114 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/SG4051-09/2009/SG AFU92710 2119 6529 10939, 15349, 19759, 24169, 28579, 32989, 37399 115 Norovirus Hu/GII.3/TCH-104/USA/2002 AGO64038 2170 6580 10990, 15400, 19810, 24220, 28630, 33040, 37450 116 Norovirus Hu/GI.6/TCH-099/USA/2003 AGT62521 2174 6584 10994, 15404, 19814, 24224, 28634, 33044, 37454 117 Norovirus 06-AM-I1/2006/GII.4/Yerseke/20006a AJZ77004 2228 6638 11048, 15458. 19868, 24278, 28688, 33098, 37508 118 Norovirus 09-BI-2/2009/GII.4/NewOrleans/2009 AJZ77015 2231 6641 11051, 15461, 19871, 24281, 28691, 33101, 37511 119 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/PR328/2013/ITA AKE31861 2242 6652 11062, 15472, 19882, 24292, 28702, 33112, 37522 120 Norovirus Hu/GII.P17_GII.17/PR668/2015/ITA ALD09618 2253 6663 11073, 15483, 19893, 24303, 28713, 33123, 37533 121 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/AlbertaSP1/2013/CA ALT54494 2274 6684 11094, 15504, 19914, 24324, 28734, 33144, 37554 122 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/C00007892/2011/UK CCX28619 2280 6690 11100, 15510, 19920, 24330, 28740, 33150, 37560 123 Norovirus Hu/GII.6/GZ2010-L96/Guangzhou/CHN/2011 AGC96535 2330 6740 11150, 15560, 19970, 24380, 28790, 33200, 37610 124 Norovirus Bo/GIII.1/Aba-Z5/2002/HUN ABY67257 2341 6751 11161, 15571, 19981, 24391, 28801, 33211, 37621 125 Norovirus GI.9 AHA91656 2342 6752 11162, 15572, 19982, 24392, 28802, 33212, 37622 126 Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-670/HKG/2015 KT315718 2488 6898 11308, 15718, 20128, 24538, 28948, 33358, 37768 127 Norovirus GII/Hu/SI/2015/GII.17/Ljubljana1662 KT591501 2509 6919 11329, 15739, 20149, 24559, 28969, 33379, 37789 128 Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-647/HKG/2015 KT315706 2529 6939 11349, 15759, 20169, 24579, 28989, 33399, 37809 129 Norovirus Hu/GII.21/CUHK-NS-609/HKG/2015 KR921940 2540 6950 11360, 15770, 20180, 24590, 29000, 33410, 37820 130 Norovirus Hu/GII.4/Melbourne6623/2016/AUS KX767083 2600 7010 11420, 15830, 20240, 24650, 29060, 33470, 37880 131 Norovirus GII/Hu/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/OH16002 LC153121 2664 7074 11484, 15894, 20304, 24714, 29124, 33534, 37944 132 Norovirus Hu/GII/JP/2016/GII.P16_GII.4_Sydney2012/Kawasaki194 LC175468 3557 7966 12376, 16786, 21196, 25606, 30016, 34426, 38836 133 Norovirus 16F2149_GII.2_Guangdong_CHN_2016 KY485125 2438 6848 11258, 15668, 20078, 24488, 28898, 33308, 37718 134 Norovirus Hu/GII.17/CUHK-NS-864/HKG/2016 KU555841 2594 7004 11414, 15824, 20234, 24944, 29054, 33494, 37874 135 Norovirus GII/Hu/ZAF/2012/GII.P4_GII.4/CapeTown/9772 KP784696 2613 7023 11433, 15843, 20253, 24663, 29073, 33483, 37893 136 Norovirus GII.12 KP064099 4036 8446 12859, 17299, 21979, 29086, 30496, 34906, 39316 137 Snow Mountain virus U70059 2441 6851 11261, 15671, 20081, 24491, 28901, 33311, 37721 138 Human calicivirus strain Melksham X81879 2359 6769 11179, 15589, 19999, 24409, 28819, 33229, 37639

Preferably, the molar ratio of the complexed nucleic acid to the free nucleic acid is selected from a molar ratio of about 0.001:1 to about 1:0.001, including a ratio of about 1:1. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid as described herein, wherein the ratio of complexed nucleic acid to free nucleic acid is selected from a range of about 5:1 (w/w) to about 1:10 (w/w), more preferably from a range of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:8 (w/w), even more preferably from a range of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 1:5 (w/w) or 1:3 (w/w), wherein the ratio is mast preferably about 1:1 (w/w).

In one embodiment, at least one artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or any other nucleic acid comprised in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine can also be associated with a vehicle, transfection or complexation agent for increasing the transfection efficiency and/or the immunostimulatory properties of the at least one artificial nucleic acid or of optionally comprised further included nucleic acids.

In the context of the present invention, a cationic or polycationic compound is preferably selected from any cationic or polycationic compound, suitable for complexing and thereby stabilizing a nucleic acid, particularly the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the inventive composition, e.g. by associating the at least one artificial nucleic acid with the cationic or polycationic compound. Such a cationic or polycationic compound per se does not need to exhibit any adjuvant properties, since an adjuvant property, particularly the capability of inducing an innate immune response, is preferably created upon complexing the at least one artificial nucleic acid with the cationic or polycationic compound. When complexing the at least one artificial nucleic acid with the cationic or polycationic compound, the adjuvant component is formed.

Particularly preferred, cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins (preferably also as component P² in a polymeric carrier according to formula IV herein) may be selected from protamine, nucleoline, spermine or spermidine, poly-L-lysine (PLL), basic polypeptides, poly-arginine, cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), chimeric CPPs, such as Transportan, or MPG peptides, HIV-binding peptides, Tat, HIV-1 Tat (HIV), Tat-derived peptides, oligoarginines, members of the penetratin family, e.g. Penetratin, Antennapedia-derived peptides (particularly from Drosophila antennapedia), pAntp, plsl, etc., antimicrobial-derived CPPs e.g. Buforin-2, Bac715-24, SynB, SynB(1), pVEC, ET-derived peptides, SAP, MAP, KALA, PpTG20, Proline-rich peptides, L-oligomers. Arginine-rich peptides, Calcitonin-peptides, FGF, Lactoferrin, poly-L-Lysine, poly-Arginine, histones, VP22 derived or analog peptides, HSV, VP22 (Herpes simplex), MAP, KALA or protein transduction domains (PTDs, PpT620, prolin-rich peptides, arginine-rich peptides, lysine-rich peptides, Pep-1, Calcitonin peptide(s), etc.

According to a preferred embodiment, cationic or polycationic proteins or peptides are selected from the following proteins or peptides having the following total formula (III): (Arg)_(l);(Lys)_(m);(His)_(n);(Orn)_(o);(Xaa)_(x),  formula (III) wherein l+m+n+o+x=8-15, and l, m, n or o independently of each other may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, provided that the overall content of Arg, Lys, His and Orn represents at least 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide; and Xaa may be any amino acid selected from native (=naturally occurring) or non-native amino acids except of Arg, Lys, His or Orn; and x may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, provided, that the overall content of Xaa does not exceed 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide. Preferred cationic peptides in this context are e.g. Arg₇, Arg₈, Arg₉, H₃R₉, R₉H₃, YSSR₉SSY, (RKH)₄, Y(RKH)₂R, etc. In this context the disclosure of WO 2009/030481 is incorporated herewith by reference.

Further preferred cationic or polycationic compounds, which can be used for complexing the at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention may include cationic polysaccharides, for example chitosan, polybrene, cationic polymers, e.g. polyethyleneimine (PEI), cationic lipids, e.g. DOTMA: [1-(2,3-sioleyloxy)propyl)]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride, DMRIE, di-C14-amidine, DOTIM, SAINT, DC-Chol, BGTC, CTAP, DOPE, DODAP, DOPE: Dioleyl phosphatidylethanol-amine, DOSPA, DODAB, DOIC, DMEPC, DOGS: Dioctadecylamidoglicylspermin, DIMRI: Dimyristo-oxypropyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, DOTAP: dioleoyloxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propane, DC-6-14: O,O-ditetradecanoyl-N-(α-trimethylammonioacetyl)diethanolamine chloride, CLIP1: rac-[(2,3-dioctadecyloxypropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)]-dimethylammonium chloride, CLIP6: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxymethyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium, CLIP9: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxysuccinyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium, oligofectamine, or cationic or polycationic polymers, e.g. modified polyaminoacids, such as β-aminoacid-polymers or reversed polyamides, etc., modified polyethylenes, such as PVP (poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium bromide)), etc., modified acrylates, such as pDMAEMA (poly(dimethylaminoethyl methylacrylate)), etc., modified amidoamines such as pAMAM (poly(amidoamine)), etc., modified polybetaaminoester (PBAE), such as diamine end modified 1,4 butanediol diacrylate-co-5-amino-1-pentanol polymers, etc., dendrimers, such as polypropylamine dendrimers or pAMAM based dendrimers, etc., polyimine(s), such as PEI: poly(ethyleneimine), poly(propyleneimine), etc., polyallylamine, sugar backbone based polymers, such as cyclodextrin based polymers, dextran based polymers, chitosan, etc., silan backbone based polymers, such as PMOXA-PDMS copolymers, etc., blockpolymers consisting of a combination of one or more cationic blocks (e.g. selected from a cationic polymer as mentioned above) and of one or more hydrophilic or hydrophobic blocks (e.g. polyethyleneglycole); etc. Association or complexing the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the inventive composition with cationic or polycationic compounds preferably provides adjuvant properties to the at least one artificial nucleic acid and confers a stabilizing effect to the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the adjuvant component by complexation. The procedure for stabilizing the at least one artificial nucleic acid is in general described in EP-A-1083232, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference into the present invention in its entirety. Particularly preferred as cationic or polycationic compounds are compounds selected from the group consisting of protamine, nucleoline, spermin, spermidine, oligoarginines as defined above, such as Arg₇, Arg₈, Arg₉, Arg₇, H₃R₉, R₉H₃, H₃R₉H₃, YSSR₉SSY, (RKH)₄, Y(RKH)₂R, etc.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive composition is formulated by using the at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention and one or more liposomes, lipoplexes, or lipid nanoparticles. In one embodiment, the inventive composition comprises liposomes. Liposomes are artificially-prepared vesicles, which may primarily be composed of a lipid bilayer and may be used as a delivery vehicle for the administration of nutrients and pharmaceutical formulations. Liposomes can be of different sizes such as, but not limited to, a multilamellar vesicle (MLV) which may be hundreds of nanometers in diameter and may contain a series of concentric bilayers separated by narrow aqueous compartments, a small unicellular vesicle (SUV) which may be smaller than 50 nm in diameter, and a large unilamellar vesicle (LUV) which may be between 50 and 500 nm in diameter. Liposome design may include, but is not limited to, opsonins or ligands in order to improve the attachment of liposomes to unhealthy tissue or to activate events such as, but not limited to, endocytosis. Liposomes may contain a low or a high pH in order to improve the delivery of the inventive composition, in particular when applied as a pharmaceutical composition or a vaccine as described herein.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive composition comprises the artificial nucleic acid as described herein and a polymeric carrier. A polymeric carrier used according to the invention might be a polymeric carrier formed by disulfide-crosslinked cationic components. The disulfide-crosslinked cationic components may be the same or different from each other. The polymeric carrier can also contain further components. It is also particularly preferred that the polymeric carrier used in the composition according to the present invention comprises mixtures of cationic peptides, proteins or polymers and optionally further components as defined herein, which are crosslinked by disulfide bonds as described herein. In this context, the disclosure of WO 2012/013326 is incorporated herewith by reference.

In this context, the cationic components, which form basis for the polymeric carrier by disulfide-crosslinkage, are typically selected from any suitable cationic or polycationic peptide, protein or polymer suitable for this purpose, particular any cationic or polycationic peptide, protein or polymer capable to complex the at least one artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or a further nucleic acid comprised in the composition, and thereby preferably condensing the mRNA or the nucleic acid. The cationic or polycationic peptide, protein or polymer, is preferably a linear molecule, however, branched cationic or polycationic peptides, proteins or polymers may also be used.

Every disulfide-crosslinking cationic or polycationic protein, peptide or polymer of the polymeric carrier, which may be used to complex the at least one artificial nucleic acid or any further nucleic acid comprised in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine contains at least one —SH moiety, most preferably at least one cysteine residue or any further chemical group exhibiting an —SH moiety, capable to form a disulfide linkage upon condensation with at least one further cationic or polycationic protein, peptide or polymer as cationic component of the polymeric carrier as mentioned herein.

As defined above, the polymeric carrier, which may be used to complex the at least one artificial nucleic acid or any further nucleic acid comprised in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine may be formed by disulfide-crosslinked cationic (or polycationic) components. Preferably, such cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins or polymers of the polymeric carrier, which comprise or are additionally modified to comprise at least one —SH moiety, are selected from, proteins, peptides and polymers as defined above for complexation agent.

In a further particular embodiment, the polymeric carrier which may be used to complex the at least one artificial nucleic acid or any further nucleic acid comprised in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine may be selected from a polymeric carrier molecule according to generic formula (IV): L-P¹—S-[S—P²—S]_(n)—S—P³-L  formula (IV) wherein,

-   P¹ and P³ are different or identical to each other and represent a     linear or branched hydrophilic polymer chain, each P¹ and P³     exhibiting at least one —SH-moiety, capable to form a disulfide     linkage upon condensation with component P², or alternatively with     (AA), (AA)_(x), or [(AA)_(x)]_(z) if such components are used as a     linker between P¹ and P² or P³ and P²) and/or with further     components (e.g. (AA), (AA)_(x), [(AA)_(x)]_(z), or L), the linear     or branched hydrophilic polymer chain selected independent from each     other from polyethylene glycol (PEG),     poly-N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide,     poly-2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholines, poly(hydroxyalkyl     L-asparagine), poly(2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine),     hydroxyethylstarch or poly(hydroxyalkyl L-glutamine), wherein the     hydrophilic polymer chain exhibits a molecular weight of about 1 kDa     to about 100 kDa, preferably of about 2 kDa to about 25 kDa: or more     preferably of about 2 kDa to about 10 kDa, e.g. about 5 kDa to about     25 kDa or 5 kDa to about 10 kDa; -   P² is a cationic or polycationic peptide or protein, e.g. as defined     above for the polymeric carrier formed by disulfide-crosslinked     cationic components, and preferably having a length of about 3 to     about 100 amino acids, more preferably having a length of about 3 to     about 50 amino acids, even more preferably having a length of about     3 to about 25 amino acids, e.g. a length of about 3 to 10, 5 to 15,     10 to 20 or 15 to 25 amino acids, more preferably a length of about     5 to about 20 and even more preferably a length of about 10 to about     20: or     -   is a cationic or polycationic polymer, e.g. as defined above for         the polymeric carrier formed by disulfide-crosslinked cationic         components, typically having a molecular weight of about 0.5 kDa         to about 30 kDa, including a molecular weight of about 1 kDa to         about 20 kDa, even more preferably of about 1.5 kDa to about 10         kDa, or having a molecular weight of about 0.5 kDa to about 100         kDa, including a molecular weight of about 10 kDa to about 50         kDa, even more preferably of about 10 kDa to about 30 kDa;     -   each P² exhibiting at least two —SH-moieties, capable to form a         disulfide linkage upon condensation with further components P²         or component(s) P′ and/or P³ or alternatively with further         components (e.g. (AA), (AA)_(x), or [(AA)_(x)]_(z)); -   —S—S— is a (reversible) disulfide bond (the brackets are omitted for     better readability), wherein S preferably represents sulphur or a     —SH carrying moiety, which has formed a (reversible) disulfide bond.     The (reversible) disulfide band is preferably formed by condensation     of —SH-moieties of either components P¹ and P², P² and P², or P² and     P³, or optionally of further components as defined herein (e.g. L,     (AA), (AA)_(x), [(AA)_(x)]_(z), etc); The —SH-moiety may be part of     the structure of these components or added by a modification as     defined below; -   L is an optional ligand, which may be present or not, and may be     selected independent from the other from ROD, Transferrin, Folate, a     signal peptide or signal sequence, a localization signal or     sequence, a nuclear localization signal or sequence (NLS), an     antibody, a cell penetrating peptide, (e.g. TAT or KALA), a ligand     of a receptor (e.g. cytokines, hormones, growth factors etc), small     molecules (e.g. carbohydrates like mannose or galactose or synthetic     ligands), small molecule agonists, inhibitors or antagonists of     receptors (e.g. RGD peptidomimetic analogues), or any further     protein as defined herein, etc.; -   n is an integer, typically selected from a range of about 1 to 50,     preferably from a range of about 1, 2 or 3 to 30, more preferably     from a range of about 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to 25, or a range of about 1,     2, 3, 4, or 5 to 20, or a range of about 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to 15, or     a range of about 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to 10, including e.g. a range of     about 4 to 9, 4 to 10, 3 to 20, 4 to 20, 5 to 20, or 10 to 20, or a     range of about 3 to 15, 4 to 15, 5 to 15, or 10 to 15, or a range of     about 6 to 11 or 7 to 10. Most preferably, n is in a range of about     1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to 10, more preferably in a range of about 1, 2, 3,     or 4 to 9, in a range of about 1, 2, 3, or 4 to 8, or in a range of     about 1, 2, or 3 to 7.

In this context, the disclosure of WO 2011/026641 is incorporated herewith by reference. Each of hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ typically exhibits at least one —SH-moiety, wherein the at least one —SH-moiety is capable to form a disulfide linkage upon reaction with component P² or with component (AA) or (AA)_(x), if used as linker between P¹ and P² or P³ and P² as defined below and optionally with a further component, e.g. L and/or (AA) or (AA)_(x), e.g. if two or more —SH-moieties are contained. The following subformulae “P¹—S—S—P²” and “P²—S—S—P³” within generic formula (IV) above (the brackets are omitted for better readability), wherein any of S, P¹ and P³ are as defined herein, typically represent a situation, wherein one-SH-moiety of hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ was condensed with one —SH-moiety of component P² of generic formula (IV) above, wherein both sulphurs of these —SH-moieties form a disulfide bond —S—S— as defined herein in formula (IV). These —SH-moieties are typically provided by each of the hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³, e.g. via an internal cysteine or any further (modified) amino acid or compound which carries a —SH moiety. Accordingly, the subformulae “P¹—S—S—P²” and “P²—S—S—P³” may also be written as “P¹-Cys-Cys-P²” and “P²-Cys-Cys-P³”, if the —SH— moiety is provided by a cysteine, wherein the term Cys-Cys represents two cysteines coupled via a disulfide bond, not via a peptide bond. In this case, the term “—S—S—” in these formulae may also be written as “—S-Cys”, as “-Cys-S” or as “-Cys-Cys-”. In this context, the term “-Cys-Cys-” does not represent a peptide bond but a linkage of two cysteines via their —SH-moieties to form a disulfide bond. Accordingly, the term “-Cys-Cys-” also may be understood generally as “-(Cys-S)—(S-Cys)-”, wherein in this specific case S indicates the sulphur of the —SH-moiety of cysteine. Likewise, the terms “—S-Cys” and “-Cys-S” indicate a disulfide bond between a SH containing moiety and a cysteine, which may also be written as “—S—(S-Cys)” and “-(Cys-S)—S”. Alternatively, the hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ may be modified with a —SH moiety, preferably via a chemical reaction with a compound carrying a —SH moiety, such that each of the hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ carries at least one such —SH moiety. Such a compound carrying a —SH moiety may be e.g. an (additional) cysteine or any further (modified) amino acid, which carries a —SH moiety. Such a compound may also be any non-amino compound or moiety, which contains or allows to introduce a —SH moiety into hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ as defined herein. Such non-amino compounds may be attached to the hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ of formula (IV) of the polymeric carrier according to the present invention via chemical reactions or binding of compounds, e.g. by binding of a 3-thio propionic acid or thioimolane, by amide formation (e.g. carboxylic acids, sulphonic acids, amines, etc), by Michael addition (e.g maleinimide moieties, α,β-unsatured carbonyls, etc), by click chemistry (e.g. azides or alkines), by alkene/alkine methatesis (e.g. alkenes or alkines), imine or hydrozone formation (aldehydes or ketons, hydrazine, hydroxylamins, amines), complexation reactions (avidin, biotin, protein G) or components which allow S_(n)-type substitution reactions (e.g halogenalkans, thiols, alcohols, amines, hydrazines, hydrazides, sulphonic acid esters, oxyphosphonium salts) or other chemical moieties which can be utilized in the attachment of further components. A particularly preferred PEG derivate in this context is alpha-methoxy-omega-mercapto polyethylene glycol). In each case, the SH-moiety, e.g. of a cysteine or of any further (modified) amino acid or compound, may be present at the terminal ends or internally at any position of hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³. As defined herein, each of hydrophilic polymers P¹ and P³ typically exhibits at least one SH-moiety preferably at one terminal end, but may also contain two or even more SH-moieties, which may be used to additionally attach further components as defined herein, preferably further functional peptides or proteins e.g. a ligand, an amino acid component (AA) or (AA)_(x), antibodies, cell penetrating peptides or enhancer peptides (e.g. TAT, KALA), etc.

The complexed artificial nucleic acid in the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine, is preferably prepared according to a first step by complexing the at least one artificial with a cationic or polycationic compound and/or with a polymeric carrier, preferably as defined herein, in a specific ratio to form a stable complex. In this context, it is highly preferable, that no free cationic or polycationic compound or polymeric carrier or only a negligibly small amount thereof remains in the component of the complexed artificial nucleic acid after complexing the artificial nucleic acid. Accordingly, the ratio of the at least one artificial nucleic acid and the cationic or polycationic compound and/or the polymeric carrier in the component of the complexed at least one artificial nucleic acid is typically selected in a range that the at least one artificial nucleic acid is entirely complexed and no free cationic or polycationic compound or polymeric carrier or only a negligibly small amount thereof remains in the composition.

The inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention may be provided in liquid and or in dry (e.g. lyophylized) form. In a preferred embodiment, the inventive artificial nucleic acid or the inventive composition is provided in lyophilized form. The inventive artificial nucleic acid and the inventive composition thus provide a possibility to store (irrespective of the ambient temperature and also without cooling) an artificial nucleic acid and a composition suitable for vaccination against Norovirus and related diseases or disorders. Preferably, the at least one lyophilized artificial nucleic acid is reconstituted in a suitable buffer, advantageously based on an aqueous carrier, e.g. Ringer-Lactate solution, prior to use, such as administration to a subject.

In one embodiment, the composition according to the invention

-   -   a) comprises a plurality or more than one of the mRNA sequences         as defined in the invention;     -   or     -   b) comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids as         defined in the invention, wherein each of the at least 2, 3, 4,         5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,         22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,         38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53,         54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69,         70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,         86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or         more artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one coding         region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising a Norovirus         protein as defined in the invention, and/or a fragment or a         variant of any one of these proteins, wherein each coding region         preferably encodes a different Norovirus protein, more         preferably each coding region encodes a capsid protein,         preferably VP1 of a different Norovirus.

In another embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids of the invention, wherein each of the at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at least two different Norovirus proteins, preferably VP1 and VP2, as defined in the invention, and/or a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins, and/or wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from proteins of the same Norovirus.

In a further embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises mRNA sequences, wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from different proteins of the same Norovirus.

In a further embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises mRNA sequences, wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from different proteins of different Noroviruses.

In a further aspect, the invention concerns a vaccine comprising the artificial nucleic acid as described herein or the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention. Therein, the at least one artificial nucleic acid preferably elicits an adaptive immune response upon administration to a subject.

In a preferred embodiment, the inventive vaccine comprises the artificial nucleic acid as described herein or the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Accordingly, the inventive vaccine is based on the same components as the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention as defined above. Insofar, it may be referred to the above disclosure defining the inventive composition.

In one embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises a plurality or more than one of the mRNA sequences of the invention.

In one embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises a plurality or more than one of the mRNA sequences of the invention, wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from proteins of the same Norovirus.

In one embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises a plurality or more than one of the mRNA sequences of the invention, wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from different proteins of the same Norovirus.

In another embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises a plurality or more than one of the mRNA sequences of the invention, wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one different antigenic peptide or protein derived from different proteins of different Noroviruses.

In one embodiment, the vaccine of the invention is multivalent and comprises

-   -   (i) at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more artificial         nucleic acids of the invention; or     -   (ii) at least 10, 15, 20 or 50 artificial nucleic acids of the         invention; or     -   (iii) 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 artificial         nucleic acids of the invention.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the artificial nucleic acids of the vaccine of the invention

-   -   (i) are derived from a single GI Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GI Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) are derived from a single GII Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, BE, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GII Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) are derived from a single G111 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4,         5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,         22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,         38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53,         54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69,         70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,         86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or         more different GIII Noroviruses; or     -   (iv) are derived from a single GIV Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GIV Noroviruses; or     -   (v) are derived from a single GV Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GV Noroviruses; or     -   (vi) are derived from a single GI Norovirus and additionally         from a single GII Norovirus, GIII Norovirus, GIV Norovirus         and/or GV Norovirus: or     -   (vii) are derived from a single GI Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76.77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GI Noroviruses and additionally from a single G11,         G111, GIV and/or GV Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,         10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,         26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41,         42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57,         58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73,         74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89,         90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more GII, GIII,         GIV and/or GV Noroviruses.

In another embodiment of the invention, the artificial nucleic acids of the vaccine of the invention

-   -   (i) are derived from a single GI.1 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,         55, 56, 57, 58, 59, BO, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70,         71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86,         87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more         different GI.1 Noroviruses: or     -   (ii) are derived from a single 011.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4,         5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,         22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,         38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53,         54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69,         70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,         86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 or         more different GII.4 Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) are derived from a single GI.1 Norovirus and additionally         from a single GII.4 Norovirus; or     -   (iv) are derived from a single GI.1 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4,         5, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,         22, 23, 24, 25, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,         38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53,         54, 55, 55, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69,         70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 75, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,         86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 95, 97, 98, 99, 100 or         more different GI.1 Noroviruses and additionally from a single         GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 25, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,         62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 75, 77,         78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 85, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,         94, 95, 95, 97, 98, 99, 100 or more GII.4 Noroviruses.

As with the composition according to the present invention, the entities of the vaccine may be provided in liquid and or in dry (e.g. lyophylized) form. They may contain further components, in particular further components allowing for its pharmaceutical use. The inventive vaccine or the inventive composition may, e.g., additionally contain a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or further auxiliary substances and additives and/or adjuvants.

The inventive vaccine or composition typically comprises a safe and effective amount of the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein. As used herein, “safe and effective amount” means an amount of the artificial nucleic acid of the composition or the vaccine as defined above, that is sufficient to significantly induce an immune response against a Norovirus protein. At the same time, however, a “safe and effective amount” is small enough to avoid serious side effects that is to say to permit a sensible relationship between advantage and risk. The determination of these limits typically lies within the scope of sensible medical judgment. In relation to the inventive vaccine or composition, the expression “safe and effective amount” preferably means an amount of the artificial nucleic acid that is suitable for stimulating the adaptive immune system in such a manner that no excessive or damaging immune reactions are achieved but, preferably, also no such immune reactions below a measurable level. Such a “safe and effective amount” of the artificial nucleic acid of the composition or vaccine as defined above may furthermore be selected in dependence of the type of artificial nucleic acid, e.g. monocistronic, bi- or even multicistronic mRNA, since a bi- or even multicistronic mRNA may lead to a significantly higher expression of the encoded polypeptide(s) than use of an equal amount of a monocistronic mRNA. A “safe and effective amount” of the artificial nucleic acid of the composition or vaccine as defined above may furthermore vary in connection with the particular objective of the treatment and also with the age and physical condition of the patient to be treated, and similar factors, within the knowledge and experience of the accompanying doctor. The vaccine or composition according to the invention can be used according to the invention for human and also for veterinary medical purposes, as a pharmaceutical composition or as a vaccine.

In a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid of the composition, vaccine or kit of parts according to the invention is provided in lyophilized form. Preferably, the lyophilized artificial nucleic acid is reconstituted in a suitable buffer, advantageously based on an aqueous carrier, prior to administration, e.g. Ringer-Lactate solution, which is preferred, Ringer solution, a phosphate buffer solution.

According to a preferred embodiment, the buffer suitable for injection may be used as a carrier in the inventive vaccine or composition or for resuspending the inventive vaccine or the inventive composition. Such a buffer suitable for injection may contain salts selected from sodium chloride (NaCl), calcium chloride (CaCl₂) and optionally potassium chloride (KCl), wherein further anions may be present additional to the chlorides. CaCl₂ can also be replaced by another salt like KCl. Typically, the salts in the injection buffer are present in a concentration of at least 50 mM sodium chloride (NaCl), at least 3 mM potassium chloride (KCl) and at least 0.01 mM calcium chloride (CaCl₂). The injection buffer may be hypertonic, isotonic or hypotonic with reference to the specific reference medium, i.e. the buffer may have a higher, identical or lower salt content with reference to the specific reference medium, wherein preferably such concentrations of the afore mentioned salts may be used, which do not lead to damage of cells due to osmosis or other concentration effects. Reference media are e.g. in “in vivo” methods occurring liquids such as blood, lymph, cytosolic liquids, or other body liquids, or e.g. liquids, which may be used as reference media in “in vitro” methods, such as common buffers or liquids. Such common buffers or liquids are known to a skilled person. Ringer-Lactate solution is particularly preferred as a liquid basis.

The choice of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is determined, in principle, by the manner, in which the inventive vaccine or the inventive composition is administered. The inventive vaccine or composition can be administered, for example, systemically or locally. Routes for systemic administration in general include, for example, transdermal, oral, parenteral routes, including subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intradermal and intraperitoneal injections and/or intranasal administration routes. Routes for local administration in general include, for example, topical administration routes but also intradermal, transdermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections or intralesional, intracranial, intrapulmonal, intracardial, and sublingual injections. More preferably, the inventive vaccine or the inventive composition may be administered by an intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular route, preferably by injection, which may be needle-free and/or needle injection. Compositions/vaccines are therefore preferably formulated in liquid or solid form. The suitable amount of the inventive vaccine or composition to be administered can be determined by routine experiments with animal models. Such models include, without implying any limitation, rabbit, sheep, mouse, rat, dog and non-human primate models. Preferred unit dose forms for injection include sterile solutions of water, physiological saline or mixtures thereof. The pH of such solutions should be adjusted to about 7.4. Suitable carriers for injection include hydrogels, devices for controlled or delayed release, polylactic acid and collagen matrices. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for topical application include those which are suitable for use in lotions, creams, gels and the like. If the inventive vaccine is to be administered perorally, tablets, capsules and the like are the preferred unit dose form. The pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for the preparation of unit dose forms which can be used for oral administration are well known in the prior art. The choice thereof will depend on secondary considerations such as taste, costs and storability, which are not critical for the purposes of the present invention, and can be made without difficulty by a person skilled in the art.

Adjuvants:

According to another embodiment, the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition or the inventive vaccine may comprise an adjuvant. An adjuvant may be used, for example, in order to enhance the immunostimulatory properties of the vaccine or composition. In this context, an adjuvant may be understood as any compound, which is suitable to support administration and delivery of the vaccine or composition according to the invention. Furthermore, such an adjuvant may, without being bound thereto, initiate or increase an immune response of the innate immune system, i.e. a non-specific immune response. In other words, when administered, the vaccine or composition according to the invention typically initiates an adaptive immune response due to the at least one polypeptide encoded by the artificial nucleic acid contained in the inventive vaccine or composition. Additionally, the vaccine or composition according to the invention may generate an (supportive) innate immune response due to addition of an adjuvant as defined herein to the vaccine or composition according to the invention.

In one embodiment, the adjuvant is selected from the group consisting of:

cationic or polycationic compounds, comprising cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, including protamine, nucleoline, spermin or spermidine, poly-L-lysine (PLL), poly-arginine, basic polypeptides, cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), including HIV-binding peptides, Tat, HIV-1 Tat (HIV), Tat-derived peptides, Penetratin, VP22 derived or analog peptides, HSV VP22 (Herpes simplex), MAP, KALA or protein transduction domains (PTDs, PpT620, proline-rich peptides, arginine-rich peptides, lysine-rich peptides, MPG-peptide(s), Pep-1, L-oligomers, Calcitonin peptide(s), Antennapedia-derived peptides (particularly from Drosophila antennapedia), pAntp, plsl, FGF, Lactoferrin, Transportan, Buforin-2, Bac715-24, SynB, SynB(1), pVEC, hCT-derived peptides, SAP, protamine, spermine, spermidine, or histones, cationic polysaccharides, including chitosan, polybrene, cationic polymers, including polyethyleneimine (PEI), cationic lipids, including DOTMA: [1-(2,3-sioleyloxy)propyl)]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride, DMRIE, di-C14-amidine, DOTIM, SAINT, OC-Chol, BGTC, CTAP, DOPC, DODAP, DOPE: Dioleyl phosphatidylethanol-amine, DOSPA, DODAB, DOIC, DMEPC, DOGS: Dioctadecylamidoglicylspermin, DIMRI: Dimyristo-oxypropyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, DOTAP: dioleoyloxy-3-(trimethylammonia)prapane, DC-6-14: D,D-ditetradecanoyl-N-(α-trimethylammonioacetyl)diethanolamine chloride, CLIP1: rac-[(2,3-dioctadecyloxypropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)]-dimethylammonium chloride, CLIP6: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxymethyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium, CLIP9: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxysuccinyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium, oligofectamine, or cationic or polycationic polymers, including modified polyaminoacids, including β-aminoacid-polymers or reversed polyamides, modified polyethylenes, including PVP (poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium bromide)), modified acrylates, including pDMAEMA (poly(dimethylaminoethyl methylacrylate)), modified Amidoamines including pAMAM (poly(amidoamine)), modified polybetaaminoester (PBAE), including diamine end modified 1,4 butanediol diacrylate-co-5-amino-1-pentanol polymers, dendrimers, including polypropylamine dendrimers or pAMAM based dendrimers, polyimine(s), including PEI: poly(ethyleneimine), poly(propyleneimine), polyallylamine, sugar backbone based polymers, including cyclodextrin based polymers, dextran based polymers, chitosan, etc., silan backbone based polymers, such as PMOXA-PDMS copolymers, etc., block polymers consisting of a combination of one or more cationic blocks selected from a cationic polymer as mentioned before, and of one or more hydrophilic- or hydrophobic blocks (e.g polyethyleneglycole); or cationic or polycationic proteins or peptides, selected from the following proteins or peptides having the following total formula (III): (Arg)l; (Lys)m; (His)n; (Orn)o; (Xaa)x, wherein l+m+n+o+x=8-15, and l, m, n or o independently of each other may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, provided that the overall content of Arg, Lys, His and Orn represents at least 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide; and Xaa may be any amino acid selected from native (=naturally occurring) or non-native amino acids except from Arg, Lys, His or Orn; and x may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4, provided, that the overall content of Xaa does not exceed 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide; or nucleic acids having the formula (V): GlXmGn, wherein: G is guanosine, uracil or an analogue of guanosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein, when I=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof; or nucleic acids having the formula (VI): CIXmCn, wherein: C is cytosine, uracil or an analogue of cytosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 C is cytosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 Cis cytosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof; or adjuvants selected from the group consisting of: TDM, MDP, muramyl dipeptide, pluronics, alum solution, aluminium hydroxide, ADJUMER™ (polyphosphazene); aluminium phosphate gel; glucans from algae; algammulin; aluminium hydroxide gel (alum); highly protein-adsorbing aluminium hydroxide gel; low viscosity aluminium hydroxide gel; AF or SPT (emulsion of squalane (5%), Tween 80 (0.2%), Pluronic L121 (1.25%), phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7.4); AVRIDINE™ (propanediamine); BAY R1005™ ((N-(2-deoxy-2-L-leucylamino-b-D-glucopyranosyl)-N-octadecyl-dodecanoyl-amide hydroacetate); CALCITRIOL™ (1-alpha,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3); calcium phosphate gel; CAP™ (calcium phosphate nanoparticles); cholera holotoxin, cholera-toxin-A1-protein-A-D-fragment fusion protein, sub-unit B of the cholera toxin; CRL 1005 (block copolymer P1205); cytokine-containing liposomes; DOA (dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide); DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone); DMPC (dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine); DMPG (dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol); DOC/alum complex (deoxycholic acid sodium salt); Freund's complete adjuvant; Freund's incomplete adjuvant; gamma inulin: Gerbu adjuvant (mixture of: i) N-acetylglucosaminyl-(P1-4)-N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-glutamine (GMDP), ii) dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride (DDA), iii) zinc-L-proline salt complex (ZnPro-8); GM-CSF); GMDP (N-acetylglucosaminyl-(b1-4)-N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-O-isoglutamine); imiquimod (1-(2-methylpropyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline-4-amine); ImmTher™ (N-acetylglucosaminyl-N-acetylmuramyl-L-Ala-D-isoGlu-L-Ala-glycerol dipalmitate); DRVs (immunoliposomes prepared from dehydration-rehydration vesicles); interferon-gamma; interleukin-(beta; interleukin-2; interleukin-7; interleukin-12; ISCOMS™; ISCOPREP 7.0.3.™; liposomes; LOXORIBINE™ (7-allyl-8-oxoguanosine); LT oral adjuvant (E. coli labile enterotoxin-protoxin); microspheres and microparticles of any composition; MF59™; (squalene-water emulsion); MONTANIDE ISA 51™ (purified incomplete Freund's adjuvant); MONTANIDE ISA 720™ (metabolisable oil adjuvant); MPL™ (3-Q-desacyl-4′-monophosphoryl lipid A); MTP-PE and MTP-PE liposomes ((N-acetyl-L-alanyl-0-isoglutaminyl-L-alanine-2-(1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-(hydroxyphosphoryloxy))-ethylamide, monosodium salt); MURAMETIDE™ (Nac-Mur-L-Ala-D-Gln-OCH3); MURAPALMITINE™ and D-MURAPALMITINE™ (Nac-Mur-L-Thr-D-isoGln-sn-glyceroldipalmitoyl); NAGO (neuraminidase-galactose oxidase); nanospheres or nanoparticles of any composition; NISVs (non-ionic surfactant vesicles); PLEURAN™ (β-glucan); PLGA, PGA and PLA (homo- and co-polymers of lactic acid and glycolic acid; microspheres/nanospheres); PLURONIC L112™; PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate); PODDS™ (proteinoid microspheres); polyethylene carbamate derivatives; poly-rA: poly-rU (polyadenylic acid-polyuridylic acid complex); polysorbate 80 (Tween 80); protein cochleates (Avanti Polar Lipids, Inc., Alabaster, Ala.); STIMULON™ (Q5-21); Quil-A (Quil-A saponin); S-28403 (4-amino-otec-dimethyl-2-ethoxymethyl-1H-imidazo[4,5 c]quinoline-1-ethanol); SAF-1™ (“Syntex adjuvant formulation”); Sendai proteoliposomes and Sendai-containing lipid matrices; Span-85 (sorbitan trioleate); Specol (emulsion of Marcol 52, Span 85 and Tween 85); squalene or Robane® (2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosan and 2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyl-2,6,10,14,18,22-tetracosahexane); stearyltyrosine (octadecyltyrosine hydrochloride); Theramid® (N-acetylglucosaminyl-N-acetylmuramyl-L-Ala-D-isoGlu-L-Ala-dipalmitoxypropylamide); Theronyl-MDP (Termurtide™ or [thr 1]-MDP; N-acetylmuramyl-L-threonyl-D-isoglutamine); Ty particles (Ty-VLPs or virus-like particles); Walter-Reed liposomes (liposomes containing lipid A adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide), and lipopeptides, including Pam3Cys, in particular aluminium salts, such as Adju-phos, Alhydrogel, Rehydragel; emulsions, including CFA, SAF, IFA, MF59, Provax, TiterMax, Montanide, Vaxfectin; copolymers, including Optivax (CRL1005), L121, Poloaxmer4010), etc.; liposomes, including Stealth, cochleates, including BIDRAL; plant derived adjuvants, including Q521, Quil A, Iscomatrix, ISCOM; adjuvants suitable for costimulation including Tomatine, biopolymers, including PLG, PMM, Inulin; microbe derived adjuvants, including Romurtide, DETOX, MPL, CWS, Mannose, CpG nucleic acid sequences, CpG7909, ligands of human TLR1-10, ligands of murine TLR1-13, ISS-1018, IC31, Imidazoquinolines, Ampligen, Ribi529, IMOxine, IRIVs, VLPs, cholera toxin, heat-labile toxin, Pam3Cys, Flagellin, GPI anchor, LNFPIII/Lewis X, antimicrobial peptides, UC-1V150, RSV fusion protein, cdiGMP; and adjuvants suitable as antagonists including CGRP neuropeptide.

Particularly preferred are aluminium salts, such as aluminium phosphate (AlPO₄) or aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) and adjuvant compounds based thereon. More preferably, an aluminium salt, such as AlPO₄ (e.g. Adju-Phos) may be used in combination with the inventive artificial nucleic acid in its free form or with the inventive artificial nucleic acid complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound as described herein. Most preferably, an aluminium salt, such as AlPO₄ (e.g. Adju-Phos) may be used as adjuvant in combination with the inventive artificial nucleic acid in its free form.

Suitable adjuvants may also be selected from cationic or polycationic compounds, preferably as described herein, wherein the adjuvant is preferably prepared upon complexing the at least one artificial nucleic acid of the inventive composition or vaccine with the cationic or polycationic compound. Association or complexing the artificial nucleic acid with cationic or polycationic compounds as defined herein preferably provides adjuvant properties and confers a stabilizing effect to the artificial nucleic acid.

The ratio of the artificial nucleic acid to the cationic or polycationic compound in the adjuvant component may be calculated on the basis of the nitrogen/phosphate ratio (N/P-ratio) of the entire artificial nucleic acid complex, i.e. the ratio of positively charged (nitrogen) atoms of the cationic or polycationic compound to the negatively charged phosphate atoms of the nucleic acids. For example, 1 μg RNA typically contains about 3 nmol phosphate residues, provided the RNA exhibits a statistical distribution of bases. Additionally, 1 μg peptide typically contains about x nmol nitrogen residues, dependent on the molecular weight and the number of basic amino acids. When exemplarily calculated for (Arg)s (molecular weight 1424 g/mol, 9 nitrogen atoms), 1 μg (Arg)s contains about 700 pmol (Arg)₉ and thus 700×9=6300 pmol basic amino acids=6.3 nmol nitrogen atoms. For a mass ratio of about 1:1 RNA/(Arg)9 an N/P ratio of about 2 can be calculated. When exemplarily calculated for protamine (molecular weight about 4250 g/mol, 21 nitrogen atoms, when protamine from salmon is used) with a mass ratio of about 2:1 with 2 μg RNA, 6 nmol phosphate are to be calculated for the RNA; 1 μg protamine contains about 235 pmol protamine molecules and thus 235×21=4935 pmol basic nitrogen atoms=4.9 nmol nitrogen atoms. For a mass ratio of about 2:1 RNA/protamine an N/P ratio of about 0.81 can be calculated. For a mass ratio of about 8:1 RNA/protamine an N/P ratio of about 0.2 can be calculated. In the context of the present invention, an N/P-ratio is preferably in the range of about 0.1-10, preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 and most preferably in a range of about 0.5-2 or 0.7-2 regarding the ratio of nucleic acid:peptide in the complex, and most preferably in the range of about 0.7-1.5.

In a preferred embodiment, the inventive vaccine or the inventive composition is obtained in two separate steps in order to obtain both, an efficient immunostimulatory effect and efficient translation of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention. Therein, a so called “adjuvant component” is prepared by complexing—in a first step—a nucleic acid, preferably an RNA, of the adjuvant component with a cationic or polycationic compound in a specific ratio to form a stable complex. In this context, it is important, that no free cationic or polycationic compound or only a neglibly small amount remains in the adjuvant component after complexing the nucleic acid. Accordingly, the ratio of the nucleic acid, preferably an RNA, and the cationic or polycationic compound in the adjuvant component is typically selected in a range that the artificial nucleic acid is entirely complexed and no free cationic or polycationic compound or only a neglectably small amount remains in the composition. Preferably the ratio of the adjuvant component, i.e. the ratio of the artificial nucleic acid to the cationic or polycationic compound is selected from a range of about 6:1 (w/w) to about 0.25:1 (w/w), more preferably from about 5:1 (w/w) to about 0.5:1 (w/w), even more preferably of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w) or of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w), and most preferably a ratio of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 2:1 (w/w).

According to a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, is added in a second step to the complexed nucleic acid, preferably an RNA, of the adjuvant component in order to form the (immunostimulatory) composition of the invention. Therein, the artificial nucleic acid is added as free nucleic acid, i.e. nucleic acid, which is not complexed by other compounds. Prior to addition, the free artificial nucleic acid is not complexed and will preferably not undergo any detectable or significant complexation reaction upon the addition of the adjuvant component. This is due to the strong binding of the cationic or polycationic compound to the above described artificial nucleic acid in the adjuvant component. In other words, when the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, is added to the “adjuvant component”, preferably no free or substantially no free cationic or polycationic compound is present, which may form a complex with the free artificial nucleic acid. Accordingly, an efficient translation of the free artificial nucleic acid of the inventive vaccine or composition is possible in vivo. Therein, the free artificial nucleic acid may occur, for example, as a mono-, di-, or multicistronic nucleic acid, i.e. an artificial nucleic acid which carries the coding sequences of one or more polypeptides. Such coding sequences in a di-, or even multicistronic nucleic acid may be separated by at least one IRES sequence, e.g. as defined herein.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the free artificial nucleic acid, which is comprised in the inventive vaccine or composition, may be identical or different to the RNA of the adjuvant component of the inventive composition, depending on the specific requirements of therapy. Even more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, which is comprised in the inventive vaccine or composition, is identical to the RNA of the adjuvant component of the inventive vaccine or composition.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition comprises the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, wherein said artificial nucleic acid is present in the composition partially as free nucleic acid and partially as complexed nucleic acid. Preferably, the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, is complexed as described above and the same artificial nucleic acid is then added as free nucleic acid, wherein preferably the compound, which is used for complexing the artificial nucleic acid is not present in free form in the composition at the moment of addition of the free nucleic acid component.

The ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of artificial nucleic acid complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. the free nucleic acid) may be selected in the inventive composition according to the specific requirements of a particular therapy. Typically, the ratio of the nucleic acid, preferably an RNA, in the adjuvant component and the at least one free artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, (artificial nucleic acid, preferably mRNA in the adjuvant component:free RNA) of the inventive composition is selected such that a significant stimulation of the innate immune system is elicited due to the adjuvant component. In parallel, the ratio is selected such that a significant amount of the at least one free artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, can be provided in vivo leading to an efficient translation and concentration of the expressed protein in vivo, e.g. the at least one encoded polypeptide as defined herein. Preferably, the ratio of the mRNA in the adjuvant component:free mRNA in the inventive composition is selected from a range of about 5:1 (w/w) to about 1:10 (w/w), more preferably from a range of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:8 (w/w), even more preferably from a range of about 3:1(w/w) to about 1:5 (w/w) or 1:3 (w/w), and most preferably the ratio of mRNA in the adjuvant component:free mRNA in the inventive composition is selected from a ratio of about 1:1 (w/w).

Additionally or alternatively, the ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of artificial nucleic acid complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. free artificial nucleic acid) may be calculated on the basis of the nitrogen/phosphate ratio (N/P-ratio) of the entire mRNA complex. In the context of the present invention, an N/P-ratio is preferably in the range of about 0.1-10, preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 and most preferably in a range of about 0.5-2 or 0.7-2 regarding the ratio of mRNA:peptide in the complex, and most preferably in the range of about 0.7-1.5.

Additionally or alternatively, the ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of artificial nucleic acid, preferably mRNA, complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. free artificial nucleic acid, preferably mRNA) may also be selected in the inventive composition on the basis of the molar ratio of both nucleic acids to each other, i.e. the nucleic acid of the adjuvant component, being complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound and the free nucleic acid of the second component. Typically, the molar ratio of the nucleic acid of the adjuvant component to the free nucleic acid of the second component may be selected such, that the molar ratio suffices the above (w/w) and/or N/P-definitions. More preferably, the molar ratio of the nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, of the adjuvant component to the free nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, of the second component may be selected e.g. from a molar ratio of about 0.001:1, 0.01:1, 0.1:1, 0.2:1, 0.3:1, 0.4:1, 0.5:1, 0.6:1, 0.7:1, 0.8:1, 0.9:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.3, 1:0.2, 1:0.1, 1:0.01, 1:0.001, etc. or from any range formed by any two of the above values, e.g. a range selected from about 0.001:1 to 1:0.001, including a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.001, 0.1:1 to 1:0.001, 0.2:1 to 1:0.001, 0.3:1 to 1:0.001, 0.4:1 to 1:0.001, 0.5:1 to 1:0.001, 0.6:1 to 1:0.001, 0.7:1 to 1:0.001, 0.8:1 to 1:0.001, 0.9:1 to 1:0.001, 1:1 to 1:0.001, 1:0.9 to 1:0.001, 1:0.8 to 1:0.001, 1:0.7 to 1:0.001, 1:0.6 to 1:0.001, 1:0.5 to 1:0.001, 1:0.4 to 1:0.001, 1:0.3 to 1:0.001, 1:0.2 to 1:0.001, 1:0.1 to 1:0.001, 1:0.01 to 1:0.001, or a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01, 0.1:1 to 1:0.01, 0.2:1 to 1:0.01, 0.3:1 to 1:0.01, 0.4:1 to 1:0.01, 0.5:1 to 1:0.01, 0.6:1 to 1:0.01, 0.7:1 to 1:0.01, 0.8:1 to 1:0.01, 0.9:1 to 1:0.01, 1:1 to 1:0.01, 1:0.9 to 1:0.01, 1:0.8 to 1:0.01, 1:0.7 to 1:0.01, 1:0.6 to 1:0.01, 1:0.5 to 1:0.01, 1:0.4 to 1:0.01, 1:0.3 to 1:0.01, 1:0.2 to 1:0.01, 1:0.1 to 1:0.01, 1:0.01 to 1:0.01, or including a range of about 0.001:1 to 1:0.01, 0.001:1 to 1:0.1, 0.001:1 to 1:0.2, 0.001:1 to 1:0.3, 0.001:1 to 1:0.4, 0.001:1 to 1:0.5, 0.001:1 to 1:0.6, 0.001:1 to 1:0.7, 0.001:1 to 1:0.8, 0.001:1 to 1:0.9, 0.001:1 to 1:1, 0.001 to 0.9:1, 0.001 to 0.8:1, 0.001 to 0.7:1, 0.001 to 0.6:1, 0.001 to 0.5:1, 0.001 to 0.4:1, 0.001 to 0.3:1, 0.001 to 0.2:1, 0.001 to 0.1:1, or a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01, 0.01:1 to 1:0.1, 0.01:1 to 1:0.2, 0.01:1 to 1:0.3, 0.01:1 to 1:0.4, 0.01:1 to 1:0.5, 0.01:1 to 1:0.6, 0.01:1 to 1:0.7, 0.01:1 to 1:0.8, 0.01:1 to 1:0.9, 0.01:1 to 1:1, 0.001 to 0.9:1, 0.001 to 0.8:1, 0.001 to 0.7:1, 0.001 to 0.6:1, 0.001 to 0.5:1, 0.001 to 0.4:1, 0.001 to 0.3:1, 0.001 to 0.2:1, 0.001 to 0.1:1, etc.

Even more preferably, the molar ratio of the artificial nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, of the adjuvant component to the free nucleic acid, preferably an mRNA, of the second component may be selected e.g. from a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01. Most preferably, the molar ratio of the nucleic acid of the adjuvant component to the free nucleic acid of the second component may be selected e.g. from a molar ratio of about 1:1. Any of the above definitions with regard to (w/w) and/or N/P ratio may also apply.

Suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from nucleic acids having the formula (V): G_(l)X_(m)G_(n), wherein: G is guanosine, uracil or an analogue of guanosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof.

Other suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from nucleic acids having the formula (VI): C_(l)X_(m)C_(n), wherein: C is cytosine, uracil or an analogue of cytosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 C is cytosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 C is cytosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof.

The inventive vaccine or composition can additionally contain one or more auxiliary substances in order to further increase the immunogenicity. A synergistic action of the artificial nucleic acid of the composition or vaccine as defined herein and of an auxiliary substance, which may be optionally be co-formulated (or separately formulated) with the inventive vaccine or composition as described above, is preferably achieved thereby. Depending on the various types of auxiliary substances, various mechanisms can come into consideration in this respect. For example, compounds that permit the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), for example lipopolysaccharides, TNF-alpha or CD40 ligand, form a first class of suitable auxiliary substances. In general, it is possible to use as auxiliary substance any agent that influences the immune system in the manner of a “danger signal” (LPS, GP96, etc.) or cytokines, such as GM-CFS, which allow an immune response produced by the immune-stimulating adjuvant according to the invention to be enhanced and/or influenced in a targeted manner. Particularly preferred auxiliary substances are cytokines, such as monokines, lymphokines, interleukins or chemokines, that—additional to induction of the adaptive immune response by the encoded at least one antigen—promote the innate immune response, such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IL-19, IL-20, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27, IL-28, IL-29, IL-30, IL-31, IL-32, IL-33, INF-alpha, IFN-beta, INF-gamma, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, LT-beta or TNF-alpha, growth factors, such as hGH. Preferably, such immunogenicity increasing agents or compounds are provided separately (not co-formulated with the inventive vaccine or composition) and administered individually.

The inventive vaccine or composition can also additionally contain any further compound, which is known to be immune-stimulating due to its binding affinity (as ligands) to human Toll-like receptors TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, or due to its binding affinity (as ligands) to murine Toll-like receptors TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, TLR11, TLR12 or TLR13.

Another class of compounds, which may be added to an inventive vaccine or composition in this context, may be CpG nucleic acids, in particular CpG-RNA or CpG-DNA. A CpG-RNA or CpG-DNA can be a single-stranded CpG-DNA (ss CpG-DNA), a double-stranded CpG-DNA (dsDNA), a single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA) or a double-stranded CpG-RNA (ds CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid is preferably in the form of CpG-RNA, more preferably in the form of single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid preferably contains at least one or more (mitogenic) cytosine/guanine dinucleotide sequence(s) (CpG motif(s)).

According to a first preferred alternative, at least one CpG motif contained in these sequences, that is to say the C (cytosine) and the G (guanine) of the CpG motif, is unmethylated. All further cytosines or guanines optionally contained in these sequences can be either methylated or unmethylated. According to a further preferred alternative, however, the C (cytosine) and the B (guanine) of the CpG motif can also be present in methylated form.

Preferably, the above compounds are formulated and administered separately from the above composition or vaccine (of the invention) containing the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention.

Polypeptide:

In a further aspect, the present invention concerns a polypeptide encoded by the inventive artificial nucleic acid as described herein, or a fragment of said polypeptide.

More preferably, the inventive polypeptide comprises or consists of, preferably in this order from N-terminus to C-terminus:

-   -   a) an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant thereof,         wherein the C-terminal fragment preferably comprises or consists         of 3 to 20 amino acid residues,     -   b) an amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence of         Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof,         or an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment, or         a variant thereof, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in         Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, preferably as described         herein.

More preferably, the inventive polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of Norovirus NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, NS7, VP1, and VP2, or a fragment or variant of any of these proteins, and at least one amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   a) an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant thereof,         wherein the C-terminal fragment consists of 3 to 20 amino acid         residues,     -   b) an amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence of         Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof,         and     -   c) an amino acid sequence derived from an N-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus non-structural protein NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4,         NS5, NS6, or NS7, or a variant thereof, wherein the N-terminal         fragment consists of 3 to 20 amino acid residues.

In a preferred embodiment, the inventive polypeptide does not comprise an amino acid sequence from Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or from Norovirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) distinct from the following amino acid sequences:

-   -   a) an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant thereof,         wherein the C-terminal fragment preferably comprises or consists         of 3 to 20 amino acid residues,     -   b) an amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence of         Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof,         or an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment, or         a variant thereof, of Norovirus capsid protein VP1 as present in         Norovirus polyprotein before cleavage, preferably as described         herein, and     -   c) an amino acid sequence derived from an N-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus non-structural protein (NS1), or a variant         thereof, wherein the N-terminal fragment preferably comprises or         consists of 3 to 20 amino acid residues.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inventive polypeptides as described herein comprises a molecular tag, wherein the molecular tag is selected from the group consisting of a FLAG tag, a glutathione-S-transferase (GST) tag, a His tag, a Myc tag, an E tag, a Strep tag, a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag and an HA tag.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprising at least one of the inventive polypeptides as described herein. In a preferred embodiment, the inventive composition comprises one type of polypeptide as described herein. Alternatively, the inventive composition may comprise at least two different inventive polypeptides as described herein.

Preferably, the inventive composition comprises or consists of at least one of the inventive polypeptides described herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In this context, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier as well as optional further components of the composition are preferably as described herein with respect to the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive artificial nucleic acid.

In a further aspect, the invention concerns a vaccine comprising the inventive composition comprising at least one of the polypeptides according to the invention. Therein, the at least one of the inventive polypeptides preferably elicits an adaptive immune response upon administration to a subject. More preferably, the vaccine according to the invention comprising at least one of the inventive polypeptides or the inventive composition comprising at least one of the polypeptides according to the invention is preferably a vaccine as described herein. Reference is made to the respective description herein.

As used herein, the term ‘inventive composition’ may refer to the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention as well as to the inventive composition comprising at least one of the polypeptides according to the invention. Likewise, the term ‘inventive vaccine’, as used in this context, may refer to an inventive vaccine, which is based on the inventive artificial nucleic acid, i.e. which comprises at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention or which comprises the inventive composition comprising said artificial nucleic acid, as well as to an inventive vaccine, which is based on the inventive polypeptide(s), i.e. which comprises at least one polypeptide according to the invention or which comprises the inventive composition comprising said at least one polypeptide according to the invention.

According to another embodiment, the present invention also provides kits, particularly kits of parts, comprising the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine as described herein, optionally a liquid vehicle for solubilising and optionally technical instructions with information on the administration and dosage of the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine. The technical instructions may contain information about administration and dosage. Such kits, preferably kits of parts, may be applied e.g. for any of the applications or uses mentioned herein, preferably for the use of the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine for the treatment or prophylaxis of a Norovirus infection or diseases or disorders related thereto. The kits may also be applied for the use of the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infection or diseases or disorders related thereto, wherein the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine may induce or enhance an immune response in a mammal as defined above. Preferably, the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, or the inventive vaccine is provided in a separate part of the kit, wherein the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, or the inventive vaccine are preferably lyophilised. More preferably, the kit further contains as a part a vehicle for solubilising the artificial nucleic acid according as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, or the inventive vaccine, the vehicle preferably being Ringer-lactate solution. Any of the above kits may be used in a treatment or prophylaxis as defined above. More preferably, any of the above kits may be used as a vaccine, preferably a vaccine against Norovirus infection or a related disease or disorder.

The present invention furthermore provides several applications and uses of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide or the inventive vaccine or of kits comprising same. In particular, the inventive (pharmaceutical) composition(s) or the inventive vaccine may be used for human and also for veterinary medical purposes, preferably for human medical purposes, as a pharmaceutical composition in general or as a vaccine.

In a further aspect, the invention provides the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts for use in a method of prophylactic (pre-exposure prophylaxis or post-exposure prophylaxis) and/or therapeutic treatment of Norovirus infections. Consequently, in a further aspect, the present invention is directed to the first medical use of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts as defined herein as a medicament. Particularly, the invention provides the use of an artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at least one Norovirus protein as defined herein, or a fragment or variant thereof as described herein for the preparation of a medicament.

According to another aspect, the present invention is directed to the second medical use of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts for the treatment of an infection with Norovirus or a disease or disorder related to an infection with Norovirus as defined herein. Particularly, the artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at least one Norovirus protein as defined herein, or a fragment or variant thereof as described herein to be used in a method as said above is an artificial nucleic acid formulated together with a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle and an optionally additional adjuvant and an optionally additional further component as defined herein.

The invention provides the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts for medical use, in particular for the treatment of an infection with Norovirus or a disease or disorder related to an infection with Norovirus, wherein preferably an infection with Norovirus may involve any Norovirus strain. More preferably, the Norovirus infection is caused by a Norovirus strain, which is selected from the group consisting of GII.4 CIN-1 Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney Norovirus, GI.1 and GII.4 Sydney 2012 Norovirus. Further preferably, the Norovirus infection is caused by a Norovirus strain GII.4 Sydney or GII.4 Sydney 2012.

As used herein, “a disorder related to a Norovirus infection” or “a disease related to a Norovirus infection” may preferably comprise a complication of Norovirus infection, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation), fever, fever/chills, gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, nausea, neck stiffness, obtundation, photophobia, and/or vomiting. In a preferred embodiment, the inventive composition or vaccine is thus used for treatment or prophylaxis, preferably prophylaxis, of complications associated with a Norovirus infection.

The inventive composition or the inventive vaccine, in particular the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein or the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, can be administered, for example, systemically or locally. Routes for systemic administration in general include, for example, transdermal, oral, parenteral routes, including subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intradermal and intraperitoneal injections and/or intranasal administration routes. Routes for local administration in general include, for example, topical administration routes but also intradermal, transdermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections or intralesional, intracranial, intrapulmonal, intracardial, and sublingual injections. More preferably, vaccines may be administered by an intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular route. Inventive vaccines are therefore preferably formulated in liquid (or sometimes in solid) form. Preferably, the inventive vaccine may be administered by conventional needle injection or needle-free jet injection. In a preferred embodiment the inventive vaccine or composition may be administered by jet injection as defined herein, preferably intramuscularly or intradermally, more preferably intradermally.

In a preferred embodiment, a single dose of the inventive artificial nucleic acid, composition or vaccine comprises a specific amount of the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention. Preferably, the inventive artificial nucleic acid is provided in an amount of at least 10 μg per dose, 40 μg per dose, preferably in an amount of from 40 to 700 μg per dose, more preferably in an amount of from BD to 400 μg per dose. More specifically, in the case of intradermal injection, which is preferably carried out by using a conventional needle, the amount of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprised in a single dose is typically at least 200 μg, preferably from 200 μg to 1.000 μg, more preferably from 300 μg to 850 μg, even more preferably from 300 μg to 700 μg. In the case of intradermal injection, which is preferably carried out via jet injection (e.g. using a Tropis device), the amount of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprised in a single dose is typically at least 80 μg, preferably from 80 μg to 700 μg, more preferably from 80 μg to 400 μg. Moreover, in the case of intramuscular injection, which is preferably carried out by using a conventional needle or via jet injection, the amount of the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprised in a single dose is typically at least 80 μg, preferably from 80 μg to 1000 μg, more preferably from BO μg to 850 μg, even more preferably from 80 μg to 700 μg.

Depending on the used formulation, the used route of application, and depending on the subject (human, animal), the dose of the inventive artificial nucleic acid may range from about 1 μg to about 1000 μg, preferably from about 10 μg to about 500 μg.

The immunization protocol for the treatment or prophylaxis of a Norovirus infection, i.e the immunization of a subject against Norovirus, typically comprises a series of single doses or dosages of the inventive composition or the inventive vaccine. A single dosage, as used herein, refers to the initial/first dose, a second dose or any further doses, respectively, which are preferably administered in order to “boost” the immune reaction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts is provided for use in treatment or prophylaxis, preferably treatment or prophylaxis of a Norovirus infection or a related disorder or disease, wherein the treatment or prophylaxis comprises the administration of a further active pharmaceutical ingredient. More preferably, in the case of the inventive vaccine or composition, which is based on the inventive artificial nucleic acid, a polypeptide may be co-administered as a further active pharmaceutical ingredient. For example, at least one Norovirus protein as described herein, or a fragment or variant thereof, may be co-administered in order to induce or enhance an immune response. Likewise, in the case of the inventive vaccine or composition, which is based on the inventive polypeptide as described herein, an artificial nucleic acid as described herein may be co-administered as a further active pharmaceutical ingredient. For example, an artificial nucleic acid as described herein encoding at least one polypeptide as described herein may be co-administered in order to induce or enhance an immune response.

A further component of the inventive vaccine or composition may be an immunotherapeutic agent that can be selected from immunoglobulins, preferably IgGs, monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies, polyclonal serum or sera, etc, most preferably immunoglobulins directed against a Norovirus. Preferably, such a further immunotherapeutic agent may be provided as a peptide/protein or may be encoded by a nucleic acid, preferably by a DNA or an RNA, more preferably an mRNA. Such an immunotherapeutic agent allows providing passive vaccination additional to active vaccination triggered by the inventive artificial nucleic acid or by the inventive polypeptide.

In a further aspect the invention provides a method of treating or preventing a disorder, wherein the disorder is preferably an infection with Norovirus or a disorder related to an infection with Norovirus, wherein the method comprises administering to a subject in need thereof the artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts.

In particular, such a method may preferably comprise the steps of:

-   -   a) providing the artificial nucleic acid according to the         invention, the inventive composition comprising at least one         artificial nucleic acid according to the invention, the         inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive         composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the         inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts;     -   b) applying or administering the artificial nucleic acid         according to the invention, the inventive composition comprising         at least one artificial nucleic acid according to the invention,         the inventive polypeptides as described herein, the inventive         composition comprising at least one inventive polypeptide, the         inventive vaccine or the inventive kit or kit of parts to a         tissue or an organism;     -   c) optionally administering immune globuline against Norovirus.

According to a further aspect, the present invention also provides a method for expression of at least one polypeptide comprising at least one Norovirus, or a fragment or variant thereof, wherein the method preferably comprises the following steps:

-   -   a) providing the inventive artificial nucleic acid comprising at         least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide         comprising at least one Norovirus, or a fragment or variant         thereof, preferably as defined herein, or a composition         comprising said artificial nucleic acid: and     -   b) applying or administering the inventive artificial nucleic         acid or the inventive composition comprising said artificial         nucleic acid to an expression system, e.g. to a cell-free         expression system, a cell (e.g. an expression host cell or a         somatic cell), a tissue or an organism.

The method may be applied for laboratory, for research, for diagnostic, for commercial production of peptides or proteins and/or for therapeutic purposes. In this context, typically after preparing the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or of the inventive composition or vaccine as defined herein, it is typically applied or administered to a cell-free expression system, a cell (e.g. an expression host cell or a somatic cell), a tissue or an organism, e.g. in naked or complexed form or as a (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine as described herein, preferably via transfection or by using any of the administration modes as described herein. The method may be carried out in vitro, in viva or ex viva. The method may furthermore be carried out in the context of the treatment of a specific disease, particularly in the treatment of infectious diseases, preferably Norovirus infection or a related disorder as defined herein.

In this context, in vitro is defined herein as transfection or transduction of the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or of the inventive composition or vaccine as defined herein into cells in culture outside of an organism; in viva is defined herein as transfection or transduction of the inventive artificial nucleic acid or of the inventive composition or vaccine into cells by application of the inventive mRNA or of the inventive composition to the whole organism or individual and ex vivo is defined herein as transfection or transduction of the inventive artificial nucleic acid or of the inventive composition or vaccine into cells outside of an organism or individual and subsequent application of the transfected cells to the organism or individual.

Likewise, according to another aspect, the present invention also provides the use of the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or of the inventive composition or vaccine as defined herein, preferably for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, for expression of an encoded antigenic peptide or protein, e.g. by applying or administering the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or of the inventive composition or vaccine as defined herein, e.g. to a cell-free expression system, a cell (e.g. an expression host cell or a somatic cell), a tissue or an organism. The use may be applied for a (diagnostic) laboratory, for research, for diagnostics, for commercial production of peptides or proteins and/or for therapeutic purposes. In this context, typically after preparing the inventive artificial nucleic acid as defined herein or of the inventive composition or vaccine as defined herein, it is typically applied or administered to a cell-free expression system, a cell (e.g. an expression host cell or a somatic cell), a tissue or an organism, preferably in naked form or complexed form, or as a (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine as described herein, preferably via transfection or by using any of the administration modes as described herein. The use may be carried out in vitro, in vivo or ex vivo. The use may furthermore be carried out in the context of the treatment of a specific disease, particularly in the treatment of Norovirus infection or a related disorder.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention provides the artificial nucleic acid, the inventive composition or the inventive vaccine for use as defined herein, preferably for use as a medicament, for use in treatment or prophylaxis, preferably treatment or prophylaxis of a Norovirus infection or a related disorder, or for use as a vaccine. The vaccine or composition according to the invention can be used according to the invention for human and also for veterinary medical purposes (mammals, vertebrates), as a pharmaceutical composition or as a vaccine.

Adjuvants:

According to another embodiment, the (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine according to the invention may comprise an adjuvant, which is preferably added in order to enhance the immunostimulatory properties of the composition. In this context, an adjuvant may be understood as any compound, which is suitable to support administration and delivery of the composition according to the invention. Furthermore, such an adjuvant may, without being bound thereto, initiate or increase an immune response of the innate immune system, i.e. a non-specific immune response. In other words, when administered, the composition according to the invention typically initiates an adaptive immune response due to an antigen as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof, which is encoded by the at least one coding sequence of the inventive mRNA contained in the composition of the present invention. Additionally, the composition according to the invention may generate an (supportive) innate immune response due to addition of an adjuvant as defined herein to the composition according to the invention.

Particularly preferred, an adjuvant may be selected from adjuvants, which support induction of a Th1-immune response or maturation of naïve T-cells, such as GM-CSF, IL-12, IFN0, any immunostimulatory nucleic acid as defined above, preferably an immunostimulatory RNA, CpG DNA, etc.

In a further preferred embodiment it is also possible that the inventive composition contains besides the antigen-providing mRNA further components which are selected from the group comprising: further antigens (e.g. in the form of a peptide or protein) or further antigen-encoding nucleic acids; a further immunotherapeutic agent; one or more auxiliary substances; or any further compound, which is known to be immunostimulating due to its binding affinity (as ligands) to human Toll-like receptors; and/or an adjuvant nucleic acid, preferably an immunostimulatory RNA (isRNA).

The composition of the present invention can additionally contain one or more auxiliary substances in order to increase its immunogenicity or immunostimulatory capacity, if desired. A synergistic action of the mRNA as defined herein and of an auxiliary substance, which may be optionally contained in the inventive composition, is preferably achieved thereby. Depending on the various types of auxiliary substances, various mechanisms can come into consideration in this respect. For example, compounds that permit the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), for example lipopolysaccharides, TNF-alpha or CD40 ligand, form a first class of suitable auxiliary substances. In general, it is possible to use as auxiliary substance any agent that influences the immune system in the manner of a “danger signal” (LPS, GP96, etc.) or cytokines, such as GM-CFS, which allow an immune response to be enhanced and/or influenced in a targeted manner. Particularly preferred auxiliary substances are cytokines, such as monokines, lymphokines, interleukins or chemokines, that further promote the innate immune response, such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IL-19, IL-20, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27, IL-28, IL-29, IL-30, IL-31, IL-32, IL-33, IFN-alpha, IFN-beta, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, LT-beta or TNF-alpha, growth factors, such as hGH.

Suitable adjuvants may also be selected from cationic or polycationic compounds wherein the adjuvant is preferably prepared upon complexing the mRNA of the composition according to the invention with the cationic or polycationic compound. Associating or complexing the mRNA of the composition with cationic or polycationic compounds as defined herein preferably provides adjuvant properties and confers a stabilizing effect to the mRNA of the composition. In particular, such preferred cationic or polycationic compounds are selected from cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, including protamine, nucleoline, spermin or spermidine, or other cationic peptides or proteins, such as poly-L-lysine (PLL), poly-arginine, basic polypeptides, cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), including HIV-binding peptides, Tat, HIV-1 Tat (HIV), Tat-derived peptides, Penetratin, VP22 derived or analog peptides, HSV VP22 (Herpes simplex), MAP, KALA or protein transduction domains (PTDs, PpTG20, prolin-rich peptides, arginine-rich peptides, lysine-rich peptides, MPG-peptide(s), Pep-1, L-oligomers, Calcitonin peptide(s), Antennapedia-derived peptides (particularly from Drosophila antennapedia), pAntp, plsl, FGF, Lactoferrin, Transportan, Buforin-2, Bac715-24, SynB, SynB(1), pVEC, hCT-derived peptides, SAP, protamine, spermine, spermidine, or histones. Further preferred cationic or polycationic compounds may include cationic polysaccharides, for example chitosan, polybrene, cationic polymers, e.g. polyethyleneimine (PEI), cationic lipids, e.g. DOTMA: [1-(2,3-sioleyloxy)propyl)]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride, DMRIE, di-C14-amidine, DOTIM, SAINT, DC-Chol, BGTC, CTAP, DOPC, DODAP, DOPE: Dioleyl phosphatidylethanol-amine, DOSPA, DODAB, DOIC, DMEPC, DOGS: Dioctadecylamidoglicylspermin, DIMRI: Dimyristo-oxypropyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, DOTAP: dioleoyloxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propane, DC-6-14: O,O-ditetradecanoyl-N-(α-trimethylammonioacetyl)diethanolamine chloride, CLIP1: rac-[(2,3-dioctadecyloxypropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)]-dimethylammonium chloride, CLIP6: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxymethyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium, CLIP9: rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxysuccinyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium, oligofectamine, or cationic or polycationic polymers, e.g. modified polyaminoacids, such as β-aminoacid-polymers or reversed polyamides, etc., modified polyethylenes, such as PVP (poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium bromide)), etc., modified acrylates, such as pDMAEMA (poly(dimethylaminoethyl methylacrylate)), etc., modified Amidoamines such as pAMAM (poly(amidoamine)), etc., modified polybetaaminoester (PBAE), such as diamine end modified 1,4 butanediol diacrylate-co-5-amino-1-pentanol polymers, etc., dendrimers, such as polypropylamine dendrimers or pAMAM based dendrimers, etc., polyimine(s), such as PEI: poly(ethyleneimine), poly(propyleneimine), etc., polyallylamine, sugar backbone based polymers, such as cyclodextrin based polymers, dextran based polymers, chitosan, etc., silan backbone based polymers, such as PMOXA-PDMS copolymers, etc., blockpolymers consisting of a combination of one or more cationic blocks (e.g. selected of a cationic polymer as mentioned above) and of one or more hydrophilic- or hydrophobic blocks (e.g polyethyleneglycole); etc.

Additionally, preferred cationic or polycationic proteins or peptides, which can be used as an adjuvant by complexing the mRNA of the composition according to the invention, may be selected from following proteins or peptides having the following total formula (III): (Arg)l; (Lys)m; (His)n; (Orn)o; (Xaa)x, wherein l+m+n+o+x=8-15, and l, m, n or o independently of each other may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, provided that the overall content of Arg, Lys, His and Orn represents at least 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide; and Xaa may be any amino acid selected from native (=naturally occurring) or non-native amino acids except of Arg, Lys, His or Orn; and x may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4, provided, that the overall content of Xaa does not exceed 50% of all amino acids of the oligopeptide. Particularly preferred oligoarginines in this context are e.g. Arg7, Arg8, Arg9, Arg7, H3R9, R9H3, H3R9H3, YSSR9SSY, (RKH)4, Y(RKH)2R, etc.

The ratio of the mRNA to the cationic or polycationic compound in the adjuvant component may be calculated on the basis of the nitrogen/phosphate ratio (N/P-ratio) of the entire mRNA complex, i.e. the ratio of positively charged (nitrogen) atoms of the cationic or polycationic compound to the negatively charged phosphate atoms of the nucleic acids. For example, 1 μg of RNA typically contains about 3 nmol phosphate residues, provided the RNA exhibits a statistical distribution of bases. Additionally, 1 μg of peptide typically contains about x nmol nitrogen residues, dependent on the molecular weight and the number of basic amino acids. When exemplarily calculated for (Arg)9 (molecular weight 1424 g/mol, 9 nitrogen atoms), 1 μg (Arg)9 contains about 700 pmol (Arg)9 and thus 700×9=6300 pmol basic amino acids=6.3 nmol nitrogen atoms. For a mass ratio of about 1:1 RNA/(Arg)9 an N/P ratio of about 2 can be calculated. When exemplarily calculated for protamine (molecular weight about 4250 g/mol, 21 nitrogen atoms, when protamine from salmon is used) with a mass ratio of about 2:1 with 2 Ξg RNA, 6 nmol phosphate are to be calculated for the RNA: 1 μg protamine contains about 235 pmol protamine molecules and thus 235×21=4935 pmol basic nitrogen atoms=4.9 nmol nitrogen atoms. For a mass ratio of about 2:1 RNA/protamine an N/P ratio of about 0.81 can be calculated. For a mass ratio of about 8:1 RNA/protamine an N/P ratio of about 0.2 can be calculated. In the context of the present invention, an N/P-ratio is preferably in the range of about 0.1-10, preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 and most preferably in a range of about 0.5-2 or 0.7-2 regarding the ratio of RNA:peptide in the complex, and most preferably in the range of about 0.7-1.5.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention is obtained in two separate steps in order to obtain both, an efficient immunostimulatory effect and efficient translation of the mRNA according to the invention. Therein, a so called “adjuvant component” is prepared by complexing in a first step an mRNA as defined herein of the adjuvant component with a cationic or polycationic compound in a specific ratio to form a stable complex. In this context, it is important, that no free cationic or polycationic compound or only a negligibly small amount remains in the adjuvant component after complexing the mRNA. Accordingly, the ratio of the mRNA and the cationic or polycationic compound in the adjuvant component is typically selected in a range that the mRNA is entirely complexed and no free cationic or polycationic compound or only a negligible small amount remains in the composition. Preferably the ratio of the adjuvant component, i.e. the ratio of the mRNA to the cationic or polycationic compound is selected from a range of about 9:1 (w/w) to about 0.25:1 (w/w), more preferably from about 5:1 (w/w) to about 0.5:1 (w/w), even more preferably of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w) or of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w/w), and most preferably a ratio of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 2:1 (w/w).

According to a preferred embodiment, the mRNA of the invention comprising at least one mRNA sequence comprising at least one coding region as defined herein is added in a second step to the complexed mRNA of the adjuvant component in order to form the (immunostimulatory) composition of the invention. Therein, the mRNA of the composition according to the invention is added as free mRNA, which is not complexed by other compounds. Prior to addition, the free mRNA is not complexed and will preferably not undergo any detectable or significant complexation reaction upon the addition of the adjuvant component. This is due to the strong binding of the cationic or polycationic compound to the above described mRNA according to the invention comprised in the adjuvant component. In other words, when the mRNA comprising at least one coding region as defined herein is added to the “adjuvant component”, preferably no free or substantially no free cationic or polycationic compound is present, which could form a complex with the free mRNA. Accordingly, an efficient translation of the mRNA of the composition is possible in vivo. Therein, the free mRNA, may occur as a mono-, di-, or multicistronic mRNA, i.e. an mRNA which carries the coding sequences of one or more proteins. Such coding sequences in di-, or even multicistronic mRNA may be separated by at least one IRES sequence, e.g. as defined herein.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the free mRNA as defined herein, which is comprised in the composition of the present invention, may be identical or different to the RNA as defined herein, which is comprised in the adjuvant component of the composition, depending on the specific requirements of therapy. Even more preferably, the free RNA, which is comprised in the composition according to the invention, is identical to the RNA of the adjuvant component of the inventive composition.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention comprises the mRNA of the invention, which encodes at least one antigenic peptide or protein as defined herein and wherein said mRNA is present in the composition partially as free mRNA and partially as complexed mRNA. Preferably, the mRNA as defined herein is complexed as described above and the same mRNA is then added as free mRNA, wherein preferably the compound, which is used for complexing the mRNA is not present in free form in the composition at the moment of addition of the free mRNA component.

The ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of the mRNA as defined herein complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. the free mRNA as defined herein) may be selected in the inventive composition according to the specific requirements of a particular therapy. Typically, the ratio of the mRNA in the adjuvant component and the at least one free mRNA (mRNA in the adjuvant component:free mRNA) of the composition according to the invention is selected such that a significant stimulation of the innate immune system is elicited due to the adjuvant component. In parallel, the ratio is selected such that a significant amount of the free mRNA can be provided in vivo leading to an efficient translation and concentration of the expressed protein in vivo, e.g. the at least one antigenic peptide or protein as defined herein. Preferably the ratio of the mRNA in the adjuvant component:free mRNA in the inventive composition is selected from a range of about 5:1 (w/w) to about 1:10 (w/w), more preferably from a range of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:8 (w/w), even more preferably from a range of about 3:1 (w/w) to about 1:5 (w/w) or 1:3 (w/w), and most preferably the ratio of mRNA in the adjuvant component:free mRNA in the inventive composition is selected from a ratio of about 1:1 (w/w).

Additionally or alternatively, the ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of the mRNA complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. the free mRNA) may be calculated on the basis of the nitrogen/phosphate ratio (N/P-ratio) of the entire mRNA complex. In the context of the present invention, an N/P-ratio is preferably in the range of about 0.1-10, preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 and most preferably in a range of about 0.5-2 or 0.7-2 regarding the ratio of mRNA:peptide in the complex, and most preferably in the range of about 0.7-1.5.

Additionally or alternatively, the ratio of the first component (i.e. the adjuvant component comprising or consisting of the mRNA complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound) and the second component (i.e. the free mRNA) may also be selected in the composition according to the invention on the basis of the molar ratio of both mRNAs to each other, i.e. the mRNA of the adjuvant component, being complexed with a cationic or polycationic compound and the free mRNA of the second component. Typically, the molar ratio of the mRNA of the adjuvant component to the free mRNA of the second component may be selected such, that the molar ratio suffices the above (w/w) and/or N/P-definitions. More preferably, the molar ratio of the mRNA of the adjuvant component to the free mRNA of the second component may be selected e.g. from a molar ratio of about 0.001:1, 0.01:1, 0.1:1, 0.2:1, 0.3:1, 0.4:1, 0.5:1, 116:1, 0.7:1, 0.8:1, 0.9:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.3, 1:0.2, 1:0.1, 1:0.01, 1:0.001, etc. or from any range formed by any two of the above values, e.g. a range selected from about 0.001:1 to 1:0.001, including a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.001, 0.1:1 to 1:0.001, 0.2:1 to 1:0.001, 0.3:1 to 1:0.001, 0.4:1 to 1:0.001, 0.5:1 to 1:0.001, 0.6:1 to 1:0.001, 0.7:1 to 1:0.001, 0.8:1 to 1:0.001, 0.9:1 to 1:0.001, 1:1 to 1:0.001, 1:0.9 to 1:0.001, 1:0.8 to 1:0.001, 1:0.7 to 1:0.001, 1:0.6 to 1:0.001, 1:0.5 to 1:0.001, 1:0.4 to 1:0.001, 1:0.3 to 1:0.001, 1:0.2 to 1:0.001, 1:0.1 to 1:0.001, 1:0.01 to 1:0.001, or a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01, 0.1:1 to 1:0.01, 0.2:1 to 1:0.01, 0.3:1 to 1:0.01, 0.4:1 to 1:0.01, 0.5:1 to 1:0.01, 0.6:1 to 1:0.01, 0.7:1 to 1:0.01, 0.8:1 to 1:0.01, 0.9:1 to 1:0.01, 1:1 to 1:0.01, 1:0.9 to 1:0.01, 1:0.8 to 1:0.01, 1:0.7 to 1:0.01, 1:0.6 to 1:0.01, 1:0.5 to 1:0.01, 1:0.4 to 1:0.01, 1:0.3 to 1:0.01, 1:0.2 to 1:0.01, 1:0.1 to 1:0.01, 1:0.01 to 1:0.01, or including a range of about 0.001:1 to 1:0.01, 0.001:1 to 1:0.1, 0.001:1 to 1:0.2, 0.001:1 to 1:0.3, 0.001:1 to 1:0.4, 0.001:1 to 1:0.5, 0.001:1 to 1:0.6, 0.001:1 to 1:0.7, 0.001:1 to 1:0.8, 0.001:1 to 1:0.9, 0.001:1 to 1:1, 0.001 to 0.9:1, 0.001 to 0.8:1, 0.001 to 0.7:1, 0.001 to 0.6:1, 0.001 to 0.5:1, 0.001 to 0.4:1, 0.001 to 0.3:1, 0.001 to 0.2:1, 0.001 to 0.1:1, or a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01, 0.01:1 to 1:0.1, 0.01:1 to 1:0.2, 0.01:1 to 1:0.3, 0.01:1 to 1:0.4, 0.01:1 to 1:0.5, 0.01:1 to 1:0.6, 0.01:1 to 1:0.7, 0.01:1 to 1:0.8, 0.01:1 to 1:0.9, 0.01:1 to 1:1, 0.001 to 0.9:1, 0.001 to 0.8:1, 0.001 to 0.7:1, 0.001 to 0.6:1, 0.001 to 0.5:1, 0.001 to 0.4:1, 0.001 to 0.3:1, 0.001 to 0.2:1, 0.001 to 0.1:1, etc.

Even more preferably, the molar ratio of the mRNA of the adjuvant component to the free mRNA of the second component may be selected e.g. from a range of about 0.01:1 to 1:0.01. Most preferably, the molar ratio of the mRNA of the adjuvant component to the free mRNA of the second component may be selected e.g. from a molar ratio of about 1:1. Any of the above definitions with regard to (w/w) and/or N/P ratio may also apply.

Suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from nucleic acids having the formula (Va): GIXmGn, wherein: G is guanosine, uracil or an analogue of guanosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof, or formula (Vb): (NuGIXmGnNv)a, wherein: G is guanosine (guanine), uridine (uracil) or an analogue of guanosine (guanine) or uridine (uracil), preferably guanosine (guanine) or an analogue thereof; X is guanosine (guanine), uridine (uracil), adenosine (adenine), thymidine (thymine), cytidine (cytosine), or an analogue of these nucleotides (nucleosides), preferably uridine (uracil) or an analogue thereof; N is a nucleic acid sequence having a length of about 4 to 50, preferably of about 4 to 40, more preferably of about 4 to 30 or 4 to 20 nucleic acids, each N independently being selected from guanosine (guanine), uridine (uracil), adenosine (adenine), thymidine (thymine), cytidine (cytosine) or an analogue of these nucleotides (nucleosides); a is an integer from 1 to 20, preferably from 1 to 15, most preferably from 1 to 10; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 G is guanosine (guanine) or an analogue thereof, when I>1, at least 50% of these nucleotides (nucleosides) are guanosine (guanine) or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3. X is uridine (uracil) or an analogue thereof, and when m>3, at least 3 successive uridines (uracils) or analogues of uridine (uracil) occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1, G is guanosine (guanine) or an analogue thereof, when n>1, at least 50% of these nucleotides (nucleosides) are guanosine (guanine) or an analogue thereof; u,v may be independently from each other an integer from 0 to 50, preferably wherein when u=0, v≥1, or when v=0, u≥1; wherein the nucleic acid molecule of formula (Vb) has a length of at least 50 nucleotides, preferably of at least 100 nucleotides, more preferably of at least 150 nucleotides, even more preferably of at least 200 nucleotides and most preferably of at least 250 nucleotides.

Other suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from nucleic acids having the formula (VI): CIXmCn, wherein: C is cytosine, uracil or an analogue of cytosine or uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; I is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when I=1 C is cytosine or an analogue thereof, when I>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 C is cytosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine or an analogue thereof.

In this context the disclosure of WO 2003/014979 and WO 2009/095229 is also incorporated herein by reference.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a vaccine, which is based on the mRNA sequence according to the invention comprising at least one coding region as defined herein. The vaccine according to the invention is preferably a (pharmaceutical) composition as defined herein.

Accordingly, the vaccine according to the invention is based on the same components as the (pharmaceutical) composition described herein. Insofar, it may be referred to the description of the (pharmaceutical) composition as provided herein. Preferably, the vaccine according to the invention comprises at least one mRNA comprising at least one mRNA sequence as defined herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In embodiments, where the vaccine comprises more than one mRNA sequence (such as a plurality of RNA sequences according to the invention, wherein each preferably encodes a distinct antigenic peptide or protein), the vaccine may be provided in physically separate form and may be administered by separate administration steps. The vaccine according to the invention may correspond to the (pharmaceutical) composition as described herein, especially where the mRNA sequences are provided by one single composition. However, the inventive vaccine may also be provided physically separated. For instance, in embodiments, wherein the vaccine comprises more than one mRNA sequences/species, these RNA species may be provided such that, for example, two, three, four, five or six separate compositions, which may contain at least one mRNA species/sequence each (e.g. three distinct mRNA species/sequences), each encoding distinct antigenic peptides or proteins, are provided, which may or may not be combined. Also, the inventive vaccine may be a combination of at least two distinct compositions, each composition comprising at least one mRNA encoding at least one of the antigenic peptides or proteins defined herein. Alternatively, the vaccine may be provided as a combination of at least one mRNA, preferably at least two, three, four, five, six or more mRNAs, each encoding one of the antigenic peptides or proteins defined herein. The vaccine may be combined to provide one single composition prior to its use or it may be used such that more than one administration is required to administer the distinct mRNA sequences/species encoding any of the antigenic peptides or proteins as defined herein. If the vaccine contains at least one mRNA sequence, typically at least two mRNA sequences, encoding the antigen combinations defined herein, it may e.g. be administered by one single administration (combining all mRNA species/sequences), by at least two separate administrations. Accordingly; any combination of mono-, bi- or multicistronic mRNAs encoding the at least one antigenic peptide or protein or any combination of antigens as defined herein (and optionally further antigens), provided as separate entities (containing one mRNA species) or as combined entity (containing more than one mRNA species), is understood as a vaccine according to the present invention. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the inventive vaccine, the at least one antigen, preferably a combination as defined herein of at least two, three, four, five, six or more antigens encoded by the inventive composition as a whole, is provided as an individual (monocistronic) mRNA, which is administered separately.

As with the (pharmaceutical) composition according to the present invention, the entities of the vaccine may be provided in liquid and or in dry (e.g. lyophilized) form. They may contain further components, in particular further components allowing for its pharmaceutical use. The vaccine or the (pharmaceutical) composition may, e.g., additionally contain a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or further auxiliary substances and additives and/or adjuvants.

The vaccine or (pharmaceutical) composition typically comprises a safe and effective amount of the mRNA according to the invention as defined herein, encoding an antigenic peptide or protein as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof or a combination of antigens, preferably as defined herein. As used herein, “safe and effective amount” means an amount of the mRNA that is sufficient to significantly induce a positive modification of cancer or a disease or disorder related to cancer. At the same time, however, a “safe and effective amount” is small enough to avoid serious side-effects, that is to say to permit a sensible relationship between advantage and risk. The determination of these limits typically lies within the scope of sensible medical judgment. In relation to the vaccine or (pharmaceutical) composition of the present invention, the expression “safe and effective amount” preferably means an amount of the mRNA (and thus of the encoded antigen) that is suitable for stimulating the adaptive immune system in such a manner that no excessive or damaging immune reactions are achieved but, preferably, also no such immune reactions below a measurable level. Such a “safe and effective amount” of the mRNA of the (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine as defined herein may furthermore be selected in dependence of the type of mRNA, e.g. monocistronic, bi- or even multicistronic mRNA, since a bi- or even multicistronic mRNA may lead to a significantly higher expression of the encoded antigen(s) than the use of an equal amount of a monocistronic mRNA. A “safe and effective amount” of the mRNA of the (pharmaceutical) composition or vaccine as defined above will furthermore vary in connection with the particular condition to be treated and also with the age and physical condition of the patient to be treated, the severity of the condition, the duration of the treatment, the nature of the accompanying therapy, of the particular pharmaceutically acceptable carrier used, and similar factors, within the knowledge and experience of the accompanying doctor. The vaccine or composition according to the invention can be used according to the invention for human and also for veterinary medical purposes, as a pharmaceutical composition or as a vaccine.

In a preferred embodiment, the mRNA of the (pharmaceutical) composition, vaccine or kit of parts according to the invention is provided in lyophilized form. Preferably, the lyophilized mRNA is reconstituted in a suitable buffer, advantageously based on an aqueous carrier, prior to administration, e.g. Ringer-Lactate solution, which is preferred, Ringer solution, a phosphate buffer solution. In a preferred embodiment, the (pharmaceutical) composition, the vaccine or the kit of parts according to the invention contains at least one, two, three, four, five, six or more mRNAs, preferably mRNAs which are provided separately in lyophilized form (optionally together with at least one further additive) and which are preferably reconstituted separately in a suitable buffer (such as Ringer-Lactate solution) prior to their use so as to allow individual administration of each of the (monocistronic) mRNAs.

The vaccine or (pharmaceutical) composition according to the invention may typically contain a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The expression “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” as used herein preferably includes the liquid or non-liquid basis of the inventive vaccine. If the inventive vaccine is provided in liquid form, the carrier will be water, typically pyrogen-free water;

isotonic saline or buffered (aqueous) solutions, e.g phosphate, citrate etc. buffered solutions. Particularly for injection of the inventive vaccine, water or preferably a buffer, more preferably an aqueous buffer, may be used, containing a sodium salt, preferably at least 50 mM of a sodium salt, a calcium salt, preferably at least 0.01 mM of a calcium salt, and optionally a potassium salt, preferably at least 3 mM of a potassium salt. According to a preferred embodiment, the sodium, calcium and, optionally, potassium salts may occur in the form of their halogenides, e.g. chlorides, iodides, or bromides, in the form of their hydroxides, carbonates, hydrogen carbonates, or sulfates, etc. Without being limited thereto, examples of sodium salts include e.g. NaCl, NaI, NaBr, Na2CO3, NaHCO3, Na2SO4, examples of the optional potassium salts include e.g. KCl, KI, KBr, K2CO3, KHCO3, K2SO4, and examples of calcium salts include e.g. CaCl2, CaI2, CaBr2, CaCO3, CaSO4, Ca(OH)2. Furthermore, organic anions of the aforementioned cations may be contained in the buffer. According to a more preferred embodiment, the buffer suitable for injection purposes as defined above, may contain salts selected from sodium chloride (NaCl), calcium chloride (CaCl2) and optionally potassium chloride (KCl), wherein further anions may be present additional to the chlorides. CaCl2 can also be replaced by another salt like KCl. Typically, the salts in the injection buffer are present in a concentration of at least 50 mM sodium chloride (NaCl), at least 3 mM potassium chloride (KCl) and at least 0.01 mM calcium chloride (CaCl2). The injection buffer may be hypertonic, isotonic or hypotonic with reference to the specific reference medium, i.e. the buffer may have a higher, identical or lower salt content with reference to the specific reference medium, wherein preferably such concentrations of the afore mentioned salts may be used, which do not lead to damage of cells due to osmosis or other concentration effects. Reference media are e.g. in “in vivo” methods occurring liquids such as blood, lymph, cytosolic liquids, or other body liquids, or e.g. liquids, which may be used as reference media in “in vitro” methods, such as common buffers or liquids. Such common buffers or liquids are known to a skilled person. Ringer-Lactate solution is particularly preferred as a liquid basis.

However, one or more compatible solid or liquid fillers or diluents or encapsulating compounds may be used as well, which are suitable for administration to a person. The term “compatible” as used herein means that the constituents of the inventive vaccine are capable of being mixed with the mRNA according to the invention as defined herein, in such a manner that no interaction occurs, which would substantially reduce the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the inventive vaccine under typical use conditions. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, fillers and diluents must, of course, have sufficiently high purity and sufficiently low toxicity to make them suitable for administration to a person to be treated. Some examples of compounds which can be used as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, fillers or constituents thereof are sugars, such as, for example, lactose, glucose, trehalose and sucrose; starches, such as, for example, corn starch or potato starch; dextrose; cellulose and its derivatives, such as, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth; malt; gelatin; tallow; solid glidants, such as, for example, stearic acid, magnesium stearate; calcium sulfate; vegetable oils, such as, for example, groundnut oil, cottonseed oil, sesame oil, olive oil, corn oil and oil from theobroma; polyols, such as, for example, polypropylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; alginic acid.

The choice of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is determined, in principle, by the manner, in which the pharmaceutical composition or vaccine according to the invention is administered. The composition or vaccine can be administered, for example, systemically or locally. Routes for systemic administration in general include, for example, transdermal, oral, parenteral routes, including subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intradermal and intraperitoneal injections and/or intranasal administration routes. Routes for local administration in general include, for example, topical administration routes but also intradermal, transdermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections or intralesional, intracranial, intrapulmonal, intracardial, and sublingual injections. More preferably, composition or vaccines according to the present invention may be administered by an intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular route, preferably by injection, which may be needle-free and/or needle injection. Compositions/vaccines are therefore preferably formulated in liquid or solid form. The suitable amount of the vaccine or composition according to the invention to be administered can be determined by routine experiments, e.g. by using animal models. Such models include, without implying any limitation, rabbit, sheep, mouse, rat, dog and non-human primate models. Preferred unit dose forms for injection include sterile solutions of water, physiological saline or mixtures thereof. The pH of such solutions should be adjusted to about 7.4. Suitable carriers for injection include hydrogels, devices for controlled or delayed release, polylactic acid and collagen matrices. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for topical application include those which are suitable for use in lotions, creams, gels and the like. If the inventive composition or vaccine is to be administered perorally, tablets, capsules and the like are the preferred unit dose form. The pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for the preparation of unit dose forms which can be used for oral administration are well known in the prior art. The choice thereof will depend on secondary considerations such as taste, casts and storability, which are not critical for the purposes of the present invention, and can be made without difficulty by a person skilled in the art.

The inventive vaccine or composition can additionally contain one or more auxiliary substances in order to further increase the immunogenicity. A synergistic action of the mRNA contained in the inventive composition and of an auxiliary substance, which may be optionally be co-formulated (or separately formulated) with the inventive vaccine or composition as described above, is preferably achieved thereby. Depending on the various types of auxiliary substances, various mechanisms may play a role in this respect. For example, compounds that permit the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), for example lipopolysaccharides, TNF-alpha or CD40 ligand, form a first class of suitable auxiliary substances. In general, it is possible to use as auxiliary substance any agent that influences the immune system in the manner of a “danger signal” (LPS, GP96, etc.) or cytokines, such as GM-CFS, which allow an immune response produced by the immune-stimulating adjuvant according to the invention to be enhanced and/or influenced in a targeted manner. Particularly preferred auxiliary substances are cytokines, such as monokines, lymphokines, interleukins or chemokines, that—additional to induction of the adaptive immune response by the encoded at least one antigen—promote the innate immune response, such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IL-19, IL-20, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27, IL-28, IL-29, IL-30, IL-31, IL-32, IL-33, INF-alpha, IFN-beta, INF-gamma, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, LT-beta or TNF-alpha, growth factors, such as hGH. Preferably, such immunogenicity increasing agents or compounds are provided separately (not co-formulated with the inventive vaccine or composition) and administered individually.

Further additives which may be included in the inventive vaccine or composition are emulsifiers, such as, for example, Tween; wetting agents, such as, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate; colouring agents; taste-imparting agents, pharmaceutical carriers; tablet-forming agents; stabilizers; antioxidants; preservatives.

The inventive vaccine or composition can also additionally contain any further compound, which is known to be immune-stimulating due to its binding affinity (as ligands) to human Toll-like receptors TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, or due to its binding affinity (as ligands) to murine Toll-like receptors TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, TLR11, TLR12 or TLR13.

Another class of compounds, which may be added to an inventive vaccine or composition in this context, may be CpG nucleic acids, in particular CO-RNA or CpG-DNA. A CpG-RNA or CpG-DNA can be a single-stranded CpG-DNA (ss CpG-DNA), a double-stranded CpG-DNA (dsDNA), a single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA) or a double-stranded CpG-RNA (ds CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid is preferably in the form of CpG-RNA, more preferably in the form of single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid preferably contains at least one or more (mitogenic) cytosine/guanine dinucleotide sequence(s) (CpG motif(s)). According to a first preferred alternative, at least one CpG motif contained in these sequences, that is to say the C (cytosine) and the G (guanine) of the CpG motif, is unmethylated. All further cytosines or guanines optionally contained in these sequences can be either methylated or unmethylated. According to a further preferred alternative, however, the C (cytosine) and the G (guanine) of the CpG motif can also be present in methylated form.

Application and Medical Use:

According to one aspect of the present invention, the mRNA sequence, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine may be used according to the invention (for the preparation of a medicament) for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or disorders related thereto.

In this context, also included in the present invention are methods of treating or preventing Norovirus infections or disorders related thereto, preferably as defined herein, by administering to a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutically effective amount of the mRNA sequence, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention. Such a method typically comprises an optional first step of preparing the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine of the present invention, and a second step, comprising administering (a pharmaceutically effective amount of) said composition or vaccine to a patient/subject in need thereof. A subject in need thereof will typically be a mammal. In the context of the present invention, the mammal is preferably selected from the group comprising, without being limited thereto, e.g. goat, cattle, swine, dog, cat, donkey, monkey, ape, a rodent such as a mouse, hamster, rabbit and, particularly, human. A subject in need thereof may also be a non-mammalian vertebrate, e.g. a bird (chicken).

The invention also relates to the use of the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine according to the invention, preferably for eliciting an immune response in a mammal, preferably for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or a related condition as defined herein.

The present invention furthermore comprises the use of the mRNA sequence, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention as defined herein for modulating, preferably for inducing or enhancing, an immune response in a mammal as defined herein, more preferably for preventing and/or treating Norovirus infections, or of diseases or disorders related thereto. In this context, support of the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections may be any combination of a conventional Norovirus therapy method such as therapy with antivirals such as neuraminidase inhibitors (e.g. oseltamivir and zanamivir) and M2 protein inhibitors (e.g. adamantane derivatives), and a therapy using the RNA or the pharmaceutical composition as defined herein. Support of the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections may be also envisaged in any of the other embodiments defined herein. Accordingly, any use of the mRNA sequence, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention in co-therapy with any other approach, preferably one or more of the above therapeutic approaches, in particular in combination with antivirals is within the scope of the present invention.

For administration, preferably any of the administration routes may be used as defined herein. In particular, an administration route is used, which is suitable for treating or preventing an Norovirus infection as defined herein or diseases or disorders related thereto, by inducing or enhancing an adaptive immune response on the basis of an antigen encoded by the mRNA sequence according to the invention. Administration of the composition and/or the vaccine according to the invention may then occur prior, concurrent and/or subsequent to administering another composition and/or vaccine as defined herein, which may in addition contain another mRNA sequence or combination of mRNA sequences encoding a different antigen or combination of antigens, wherein each antigen encoded by the mRNA sequence according to the invention is preferably suitable for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections and diseases or disorders related thereto. In this context, a treatment as defined herein may also comprise the modulation of a disease associated to Norovirus infection and of diseases or disorders related thereto.

According to a preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention is administered by injection. Any suitable injection technique known in the art may be employed. Preferably, the inventive composition is administered by injection, preferably by needle-less injection, for example by jet-injection.

In one embodiment, the inventive composition comprises at least one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve or more mRNAs as defined herein, each of which is preferably injected separately, preferably by needle-less injection. Alternatively, the inventive composition comprises at least one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more mRNAs, wherein the at least one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more mRNAs are administered, preferably by injection as defined herein, as a mixture.

The immunization protocol for the immunization of a subject against an antigen or a combination of at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve or more antigens as defined herein typically comprises a series of single doses or dosages of the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention. A single dosage, as used herein, refers to the initial/first dose, a second dose or any further doses, respectively, which are preferably administered in order to “boast” the immune reaction. In this context, each single dosage preferably comprises the administration of the same antigen or the same combination of antigens as defined herein, wherein the interval between the administration of two single dosages can vary from at least one day, preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days, to at least one week, preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 weeks. The intervals between single dosages may be constant or vary over the course of the immunization protocol, e.g. the intervals may be shorter in the beginning and longer towards the end of the protocol. Depending on the total number of single dosages and the interval between single dosages, the immunization protocol may extend over a period of time, which preferably lasts at least one week, more preferably several weeks (e.g. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 weeks), even mare preferably several months (e.g. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 18 or 24 months). Each single dosage preferably encompasses the administration of an antigen, preferably of a combination of at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve or more antigens as defined herein and may therefore involve at least one, preferably 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 injections. In some cases, the composition or the vaccine according to the invention is administered as a single dosage typically in one injection. In the case, where the vaccine according to the invention comprises separate mRNA formulations encoding distinct antigens as defined herein, the minimum number of injections carried out during the administration of a single dosage corresponds to the number of separate components of the vaccine. In certain embodiments, the administration of a single dosage may encompass more than one injection for each component of the vaccine (e.g. a specific mRNA formulation comprising an mRNA encoding, for instance, one antigenic peptide or protein as defined herein). For example, parts of the total volume of an individual component of the vaccine may be injected into different body parts, thus involving more than one injection. In a more specific example, a single dosage of a vaccine comprising four separate mRNA formulations, each of which is administered in two different body parts, comprises eight injections. Typically, a single dosage comprises all injections required to administer all components of the vaccine, wherein a single component may be involve more than one injection as outlined above. In the case, where the administration of a single dosage of the vaccine according to the invention encompasses more than one injection, the injection are carried out essentially simultaneously or concurrently, i.e. typically in a time-staggered fashion within the time-frame that is required for the practitioner to carry out the single injection steps, one after the other. The administration of a single dosage therefore preferably extends over a time period of several minutes, e.g. 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 30 or BD minutes.

Administration of the mRNA sequence as defined herein, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention may be carried out in a time staggered treatment. A time staggered treatment may be e.g. administration of the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine prior, concurrent and/or subsequent to a conventional therapy of Norovirus infections or diseases or disorders related thereto, e.g. by administration of the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine prior, concurrent and/or subsequent to a therapy or an administration of a therapeutic suitable for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or diseases or disorders related thereto. Such time staggered treatment may be carried out using e.g. a kit, preferably a kit of parts as defined herein.

Time staggered treatment may additionally or alternatively also comprise an administration of the mRNA sequence as defined herein, the (pharmaceutical) composition or the vaccine according to the invention in a form, wherein the mRNA encoding an antigenic peptide or protein as defined herein or a fragment or variant thereof, preferably forming part of the composition or the vaccine, is administered parallel, prior or subsequent to another mRNA sequence encoding an antigenic peptide or protein as defined above, preferably forming part of the same inventive composition or vaccine. Preferably, the administration (of all mRNA sequences) occurs within an hour, more preferably within 30 minutes, even more preferably within 15, 10, 5, 4, 3, or 2 minutes or even within 1 minute. Such time staggered treatment may be carried out using e.g. a kit, preferably a kit of parts as defined herein.

In a preferred embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition or the vaccine of the present invention is administered repeatedly, wherein each administration preferably comprises individual administration of the at least one mRNA of the inventive composition or vaccine. At each time point of administration, the at least one mRNA may be administered more than once (e.g. 2 or 3 times). In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, at least two, three, four, five, six or more mRNA sequences (each encoding a distinct one of the antigens as defined herein) are administered at each time point, wherein each mRNA is administered twice by injection, distributed over the four limbs.

Kit or Kit of Parts:

According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention also provides a kit, in particular a kit of parts, comprising the mRNA sequence as defined herein, the (pharmaceutical) composition, and/or the vaccine according to the invention, optionally a liquid vehicle for solubilising and optionally technical instructions with information on the administration and dosage of the mRNA sequence, the composition and/or the vaccine. The technical instructions may contain information about administration and dosage of the mRNA sequence, the composition and/or the vaccine. Such kits, preferably kits of parts, may be applied e.g. for any of the above mentioned applications or uses, preferably for the use of the mRNA sequence according to the invention (for the preparation of an inventive medicament, preferably a vaccine) for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or diseases or disorders related thereto. The kits may also be applied for the use of the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine as defined herein (for the preparation of an inventive vaccine) for the treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or diseases or disorders related thereto, wherein the mRNA sequence, the composition and/or the vaccine may be capable of inducing or enhancing an immune response in a mammal as defined above. Such kits may further be applied for the use of the mRNA sequence, the composition or the vaccine as defined herein (for the preparation of an inventive vaccine) for modulating, preferably for eliciting, e.g. to induce or enhance, an immune response in a mammal as defined above, and preferably for supporting treatment or prophylaxis of Norovirus infections or diseases or disorders related thereto. Kits of parts, as a special form of kits, may contain one or more identical or different compositions and/or one or more identical or different vaccines as described herein in different parts of the kit. Kits of parts may also contain an (e.g. one) composition, an (e.g. one) vaccine and/or the mRNA sequence according to the invention in different parts of the kit, e.g. each part of the kit containing an mRNA sequence as defined herein, preferably encoding a distinct antigen. Preferably, the kit or the kit of parts contains as a part a vehicle for solubilising the mRNA according to the invention, the vehicle preferably being Ringer-lactate solution. Any of the above kits may be used in a treatment or prophylaxis as defined above.

In another embodiment of this aspect, the kit according to the present invention may additionally contain at least one adjuvant. In a further embodiment, the kit according to the present invention may additionally contain at least one further pharmaceutically active component, preferably a therapeutic compound suitable for treatment and/or prophylaxis of cancer or a related disorder. Moreover, in another embodiment, the kit may additionally contain parts and/or devices necessary or suitable for the administration of the composition or the vaccine according to the invention, including needles, applicators, patches, injection-devices.

Preferred Items:

In one embodiment the invention relates to subject matter summarized as follows:

Item 1. Artificial nucleic acid comprising at least one coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived from a Norovirus, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 2. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 1, wherein the at least one encoded polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of a non-structural protein derived from a Norovirus and/or a capsid protein derived from a Norovirus, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 3. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 1 or 2, wherein the at least one encoded polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of Norovirus non-structural proteins NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, NS7, Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and Norovirus capsid protein VP2, and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 4. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of genogroup I Norovirus, genogroup II Norovirus, genogroup III Norovirus, genogroup IV Norovirus, and genogroup V Norovirus; preferably the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of a GI.1 to GI.17 Norovirus, GII.1 to GII.24 Norovirus, GIII.1 to GIII.4 Norovirus, GIV.1 to GIV.4 Norovirus and GV.1 to GV.4 Norovirus; more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a Norovirus selected from the group consisting of GI.1 Norovirus and GII.4 Norovirus, even more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a GII.4 Norovirus, still more preferably, the artificial nucleic acid is derived from a GII.4 CIN-1 Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney Norovirus or a GII.4 Sydney 2012 Norovirus.

Item 5. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises at least one Norovirus capsid protein VP1 or Norovirus capsid protein VP2 and/or a fragment or a variant thereof.

Item 6. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises at least one Norovirus capsid protein VP1 and/or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 7. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the at least one encoded polypeptide comprises

-   -   (i) at least one of the amino acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the amino acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 50%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 51%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%,         67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         amino acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-4410; and/or     -   (iii) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-39090, 39713-39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

Item 8. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the at least one coding region comprises

-   -   (i) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39590, 39713-39745; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 00%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, GA,         67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 75%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 85%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         nucleic acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NOs:         4411-39690, 39713-39746; and/or     -   (iii) at least one complement of the nucleic acid sequences         which are capable of hybridizing with a nucleic acid sequence         comprising a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 4411-39590,         39713-39746, and/or to a nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide         having a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 1-4410: and/or     -   (iv) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NOs:         1-39690, 39713-39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

Item 9. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is monocistronic, bicistronic or multicistronic.

Item 10. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is monocistronic and wherein the coding region encodes a polypeptide comprising at least two different Norovirus proteins as defined in any one of items 1 to 9, or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 11. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is bi- or multicistronic and comprises at least two coding regions, wherein the at least two coding regions encode at least two polypeptides, wherein each of the at least two polypeptides comprises at least one Norovirus protein as defined in any one of items 1 to 9, or a fragment or variant of any one of these proteins, wherein the at least two polypeptides are preferably different polypeptides.

Item 12. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is an RNA, preferably an mRNA.

Item 13. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 5′-cap structure.

Item 14. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 13, wherein the G/C content of the coding region of the mRNA sequence is increased compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the C content of the coding region of the mRNA sequence is increased compared to the C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the codon usage in the coding region of the mRNA sequence is adapted to the human codon usage, or wherein the codon adaptation index (CAI) is increased or maximised in the coding region of the mRNA sequence, wherein the encoded amino acid sequence of the mRNA sequence is preferably not being modified compared to the encoded amino acid sequence of the wild type mRNA.

Item 15. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 14, wherein

-   -   (i) the at least one coding region comprises a nucleic acid         sequence, which is codon-optimized; and/or     -   (ii) wherein the at least one coding sequence comprises a         nucleic acid sequence, which is identical or at least 50%, BA,         70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,         96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence         selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 8821-13230,         26461-39690, 39715, 39716, 39717, 39720, 39721, 39724, 39725,         39728, 39729, 39730, 39733, 39734, 39737, 39738, 39741, 39742,         39745 and 39746, or a fragment or variant of any of these         sequences; and/or     -   (iii) wherein the at least one coding sequence comprises a         nucleic acid sequence, which is identical or at least 50%, 80%,         70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,         96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic acid sequence         selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 13231-17840,         or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences; and/or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of the         preceding items, wherein the at least one coding sequence         comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is identical or at         least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%,         92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic         acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs:         17641-22050, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences;         and/or     -   (v) the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of the         preceding items, wherein the at least one coding sequence         comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is identical or at         least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%,         92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic         acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs:         22051-26460, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

Item 16. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 15, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one histone stem-loop.

Item 17. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 16, wherein the at least one histone stem-loop comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to the following formulae (I) or (II):

-   -   formula (I) (stem-loop sequence without stem bordering         elements):

-   -   formula (II) (stem-loop sequence with stem bordering elements):

-   -   wherein:     -   stem1 or stem2 bordering elements N₁₋₆ is a consecutive sequence         of 1 to 6, preferably of 2 to 6, more preferably of 2 to 5, even         more preferably of 3 to 5, most preferably of 4 to 5 or 5 N,         wherein each N is independently from another selected from a         nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G and C, or a nucleotide         analogue thereof;     -   stem1 [N₀₋₂GN₃₋₅] is reverse complementary or partially reverse         complementary with element stem2, and is a consecutive sequence         between of 5 to 7 nucleotides;         -   wherein N₀₋₂ is a consecutive sequence of 0 to 2, preferably             of 0 to 1, more preferably of 1 N, wherein each N is             independently from another selected from a nucleotide             selected from A, U, T, G and C or a nucleotide analogue             thereof;         -   wherein N3-5 is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5, preferably             of 4 to 5, more preferably of 4 N, wherein each N is             independently from another selected from a nucleotide             selected from A, U, T, G and C or a nucleotide analogue             thereof, and         -   wherein G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, and may be             optionally replaced by a cytidine or an analogue thereof,             provided that its complementary nucleotide cytidine in stem2             is replaced by guanosine;         -   loop sequence [N₀₋₄(U/T)N_(0-4]) is located between elements             stem1 and stem2, and is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5             nucleotides, more preferably of 4 nucleotides;         -   wherein each N₀₋₄ is independent from another a consecutive             sequence of 0 to 4, preferably of 1 to 3, more preferably of             1 to 2 N, wherein each N is independently from another             selected from a nucleotide selected from A, U, T, G and C or             a nucleotide analogue thereof; and         -   wherein U/T represents uridine, or optionally thymidine;     -   stem2 [N₃₋₅CN₀₋₂] is reverse complementary or partially reverse         complementary with element stem1, and is a consecutive sequence         between of 5 to 7 nucleotides;         -   wherein N₃₋₅ is a consecutive sequence of 3 to 5, preferably             of 4 to 5, more preferably of 4 N, wherein each N is             independently from another selected from a nucleotide             selected from A, U, T, G and C or a nucleotide analogue             thereof;         -   wherein N₀₋₂ is a consecutive sequence of 0 to 2, preferably             of 0 to 1, more preferably of 1N, wherein each N is             independently from another selected from a nucleotide             selected from A, U, T, G and C or a nucleotide analogue             thereof; and         -   wherein C is cytidine or an analogue thereof, and may be             optionally replaced by a guanosine or an analogue thereof             provided that its complementary nucleotide guanosine in             stems is replaced by cytidine;     -   wherein     -   stem1 and stem2 are capable of base pairing with each other         forming a reverse complementary sequence, wherein base pairing         may occur between stem1 and stem2, or     -   forming a partially reverse complementary sequence, wherein an         incomplete base pairing may occur between stem1 and stem2.

Item 18. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 17, wherein the at least one histone stem-loop comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to the following formulae (Ia) or (IIa):

-   -   formula (Ia) (stem-loop sequence without stem bordering         elements):

-   -   formula (IIa) (stem-loop sequence with stem bordering elements):

Item 19. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 16 to 18, wherein the at least one histone stem loop comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710, or a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 20. The artificial nucleic acid molecule according to any one of items 1 to 19, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises an untranslated region (UTR).

Item 21. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 20, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 3′-UTR.

Item 22. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 21, wherein the 3′-UTR comprises at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element.

Item 23. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 21 or 22, wherein the 3′-UTR comprises a poly(A) sequence and/or a poly(C) sequence.

Item 24. The artificial nucleic acid according to item 23, wherein the poly(A) sequence comprises 10 to 200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides, and/or the poly(C) sequence comprises 10 to 200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine nucleotides.

Item 25. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 24, wherein the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of a gene, which preferably encodes a stable mRNA, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant of said gene.

Item 26. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 25, wherein the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of a gene selected from the group consisting of an albumin gene, an α-globin gene, a β-globin gene, a tyrosine hydroxylase gene, a lipoxygenase gene, and a collagen alpha gene, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof.

Item 27. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 26, wherein the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence derived from a 3′-UTR of an α-globin gene, preferably comprising the corresponding RNA sequence of the nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39701, or SEQ ID NO: 39702, a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof.

Item 28. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 27, wherein the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 3′-UTR of a vertebrate albumin gene or from a variant thereof, preferably from the 3′-UTR of a mammalian albumin gene or from a variant thereof, more preferably from the 3′-UTR of a human albumin gene or from a variant thereof, even more preferably from the 3′-UTR of the human albumin gene according to Genbank Accession number NM_000477.5, or from a fragment or variant thereof.

Item 29. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 28, wherein the at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NO: 39703 to SEQ ID NO: 39708, or a homing, a fragment or a variant thereof.

Item 30. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 29, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 5′-UTR.

Item 31. The artificial nucleic acid sequence according to any one of items 1 to 3D, wherein the 5′-UTR comprises at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element.

Item 32. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 31, wherein the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TDP gene, preferably from a corresponding RNA sequence, or a homolog, a fragment, or a variant thereof, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

Item 33. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 32, wherein the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TDP gene encoding a ribosomal protein, preferably from a corresponding RNA sequence, or from a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

Item 34. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 33, wherein the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from a 5′-UTR of a TOP gene encoding a ribosomal Large protein (RPL), preferably RPL32 or RPL35A, or from a gene selected from the group consisting of HSD17B4, ATP5A1, AIG1, ASAH1, COX6C or ABCB7 (MDR), or from a homolog, a fragment or variant of any one of these genes, preferably lacking the 5′TOP motif.

Item 35. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 34, wherein the at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39691 to SEQ ID NO: 39694, or a homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof.

Item 36. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 35 comprising, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally a 5′-cap structure, preferably m7GpppN,     -   b) a coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived         from a Norovirus as described herein, preferably VP1, or a         fragment or variant thereof,     -   c) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   d) optionally a poly(C) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   e) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

Item 37. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 36 comprising, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally a 5′-cap structure, preferably m7GpppN,     -   b) a coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived         from a Norovirus, preferably VP1 as described herein, or a         fragment or variant thereof,     -   c) a 3′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is         derived from an α-globin gene, preferably comprising the         corresponding RNA sequence of the nucleic acid sequence         according to SEQ ID NO: 39701, or SEQ ID NO: 39702, or a         homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof,     -   d) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   e) optionally a poly(C) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   f) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

Item 38. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 37, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NO: 39713-39749, preferably a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NO: 39719, 39721, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

Item 39. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 38, comprising, preferably in 5′ to 3′ direction, the following elements:

-   -   a) optionally a 5′-cap structure, preferably m7GpppN,     -   b) a 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic         acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene,         preferably comprising a nucleic acid sequence according to SEQ         ID NO: 39991, or SEQ ID NO: 39692, or a homolog, a fragment or a         variant thereof,     -   c) a coding region encoding at least one polypeptide derived         from a Norovirus, preferably VP1 as described herein, or a         fragment or variant thereof,     -   d) a 3′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is         derived from an albumin gene, preferably comprising the         corresponding RNA sequence of the nucleic acid sequence         according to SEQ ID NO: 39705, or SEQ ID NO: 39706, or a         homolog, a fragment or a variant thereof,     -   e) optionally a poly(A) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 40 to 80 or 50 to 70 adenosine nucleotides,     -   f) optionally a poly(C) tail, preferably consisting of 10 to         200, 10 to 100, 20 to 70, 20 to 60 or 10 to 40 cytosine         nucleotides, and     -   g) optionally a histone stem-loop, preferably comprising the RNA         sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 39709 to SEQ ID NO: 39710.

Item 40. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 39, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39746, preferably a nucleic acid sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 39716, 39721, 39729, 39734, 39738, 39725, or a fragment or variant of any of these sequences.

Item 41. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 40, wherein the coding region comprises a modified nucleic acid sequence.

Item 42. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 41, wherein the at least one coding region comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding a molecular tag and wherein the molecular tag is selected from the group consisting of a FLAG tag, a glutathione-S-transferase (GST) tag, a His tag, a Myc tag, an E tag, a Strep tag, a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag and an HA tag.

Item 43. Composition comprising at least one artificial nucleic acid as defined by any one of items 1 to 42 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Item 44. The composition according to item 43, wherein the at least one mRNA is complexed with one or more cationic or polycationic compounds, preferably with cationic or polycationic polymers, cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, e.g. protamine, cationic or polycationic polysaccharides and/or cationic or polycationic lipids.

Item 45. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 44, wherein the N/P ratio of the at least one mRNA to the one or more cationic or polycationic compounds is in the range of about 0.1 to 20, including a range of about 0.3 to 4, of about 0.5 to 2, of about 0.7 to 2 and of about 0.7 to 1.5.

Item 46. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 45 comprising the at least one mRNA, which is complexed with one or mare cationic or polycationic compounds, and at least one free mRNA.

Item 47. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 46, wherein the at least one complexed mRNA is identical to the at least one free mRNA.

Item 48. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 47, wherein the mRNA is complexed with one or more lipids, thereby forming liposomes, lipid nanoparticles and/or lipoplexes.

Item 49. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 48, wherein the composition comprises at least one adjuvant.

Item 50. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 49, wherein

-   -   a) the composition comprises a plurality or more than one of the         mRNA sequences each defined in any one of items 1 to 42;     -   or     -   b) the composition comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,         10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,         26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41,         42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more artificial nucleic         acids as defined by any one of items 1 to 42, wherein each of         the at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16,         17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32,         33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48,         49, 50 or more artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one         coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising a         Norovirus protein as defined in any one of items 1 to 42, and/or         a fragment or a variant of any one of these proteins, wherein         each coding region preferably encodes a different Norovirus         protein, more preferably each coding region encodes a capsid         protein, preferably VP1 of a different Norovirus.

Item 51. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 50, wherein

-   -   a) wherein each of the mRNA sequences encodes at least one         different antigenic peptide or protein derived from proteins of         the same Norovirus; and/or     -   b) the composition comprises at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,         10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,         26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41,         42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more artificial nucleic         acids as defined by any one of items 1 to 42, wherein each of         the at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16,         17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32,         33, 34, 35, 38, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48,         49, 50 or more artificial nucleic acids comprises at least one         coding region encoding at least one polypeptide comprising at         least two different Norovirus proteins, preferably VP1 and VP2,         as defined in any one of items 1 to 42, and/or a fragment or a         variant of any one of these proteins.

Item 52. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 51, wherein the at least one artificial nucleic acid is complexed at least partially with a cationic or polycationic compound and/or a polymeric carrier, preferably a cationic protein or peptide.

Item 53. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 52, wherein

-   -   (i) the ratio of complexed nucleic acid to free nucleic acid is         selected from a range of about 5:1 (w/w) to about 1:10 (w/w),         more preferably from a range of about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:8         (w/w), even more preferably from a range of about 3:1 (w/w) to         about 1:5 (w/w) or 1:3 (w/w), wherein the ratio is most         preferably about 1:1 (w/w); or     -   (ii) the mRNA is complexed with one or more cationic or         polycationic compounds in a weight ratio selected from a range         of about 6:1 (w/w) to about 0.25:1 (w/w), more preferably from         about 5:1 (w/w) to about 0.5:1 (w/w), even more preferably of         about 4:1 (w/w) to about 1:1 (w:w) or of about 3:1(w/w) to about         1:1 (w/w), and most preferably a ratio of about 3:1 (w/w) to         about 2:1 (w/w) of mRNA to cationic or polycationic compound         and/or with a polymeric carrier; or optionally in a         nitrogen/phosphate ratio of mRNA to cationic or polycationic         compound and/or polymeric carrier in the range of about 0.1-10,         preferably in a range of about 0.3-4 or 0.3-1, and most         preferably in a range of about 0.5-1 or 0.7-1, and even most         preferably in a range of about 0.3-0.9 or 0.5-0.9;     -   and/or wherein the at least one artificial nucleic acid or mRNA         is complexed with one or more cationic or polycationic         compounds, preferably with cationic or polycationic polymers,         cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, e.g. protamine,         cationic or polycationic polysaccharides and/or cationic or         polycationic lipids     -   and/or wherein the at least one artificial nucleic acid or mRNA         is complexed with one or more lipids and thereby forming         liposomes, lipid nanoparticles and/or lipoplexes.

Item 54. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 53 wherein the composition comprises

-   -   (i) at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more artificial         nucleic acids as defined in items 1 to 42; or     -   (ii) at least 10, 15, 20 or 50 artificial nucleic acids as         defined in items 1 to 42; or     -   (iii) 2-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 artificial         nucleic acids as defined in items 1 to 42;     -   and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein preferably         the artificial nucleic acid encodes a capsid protein VP1 derived         from a Norovirus.

Item 55. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 54, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GII         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or mare different 011 Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GIII Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GIII Noroviruses; or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single G1V         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GIV Noroviruses; or     -   (v) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GU         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GV Noroviruses; or     -   (vi) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus and additionally from a single GII Norovirus, GIII         Norovirus, DIV Norovirus and/or GV Norovirus; or     -   (vii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI Noroviruses and additionally         from a single GII, GIII, GIV or GV Norovirus and/or from 2, 3,         4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,         21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36,         37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 and/or         more GII, GIII, GIV or GV Noroviruses;     -   wherein preferably the artificial nucleic acids encode a capsid         protein VP1 derived from a Norovirus.

Item 56. The composition according to any one of items 43 to 55, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 49,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GII.4 Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GI.1 Norovirus and additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus;         or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses and         additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more GII.4         Noroviruses; and/or     -   wherein     -   (i) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences according to any         one of SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO: 39746; and/or     -   (ii) at least one of the nucleic acid sequences having, in         increasing order of preference, at least 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%,         54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 90%, 91%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 69%,         67%, 98%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%,         80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 89%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%,         93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity to the         nucleic acid sequence represented by any one of SEQ ID NO: 39713         to SEQ ID NO: 39749; and/or     -   (iii) at least one complement of the nucleic acid sequences         which are capable of hybridizing with a nucleic acid sequence         comprising a sequence as shown in SEQ ID NO: 39713 to SEQ ID NO:         39746; and/or     -   (iv) an orthologue or a paralogue of any one of SEQ ID NO: 39713         to SEQ ID NO: 39746; and/or a fragment or variant of any of         these sequences.

Item 57. Polypeptide encoded by the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42.

Item 58. Polypeptide according to any one of items 1 to 42 comprising at least one protein selected from the group consisting of NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4, NS5, NS6, NS7, VP1, and VP2 derived from Norovirus, or a fragment or variant of any of these proteins, and at least one amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   a) an amino acid sequence derived from a C-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a variant thereof,         wherein the C-terminal fragment consists of 3 to 20 amino acid         residues,     -   b) an amino acid sequence derived from a signal sequence of         Norovirus capsid protein VP1, or a fragment or variant thereof,         and     -   c) an amino acid sequence derived from an N-terminal fragment         from mature Norovirus non-structural protein NS1/NS2, NS3, NS4,         NS5, NS6, or NS7, or a variant thereof, wherein the N-terminal         fragment consists of 3 to 20 amino acid residues.

Item 59. The polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 58 comprising a molecular tag, wherein the molecular tag is selected from the group consisting of a FLAG tag, a glutathione-S-transferase (GST) tag, a His tag, a Myc tag, an E tag, a Strep tag, a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag and an HA tag.

Item 60. Composition comprising the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Item 61. Vaccine comprising the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, and/or the composition according to item 60.

Item 62. The vaccine according to item 91, wherein the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, or the composition according to item BD elicits an adaptive immune response.

Item 63. The vaccine according to item 91 to 62, wherein the vaccine further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Item 64. The vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 63 further comprising an adjuvant.

Item 65. The vaccine according to any one of items GI to 64, wherein the vaccine is multivalent and comprises

-   -   (i) at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more artificial         nucleic acids as defined in items 1 to 42; or     -   (ii) at least 10, 15, 20 or 50 artificial nucleic acids as         defined in items 1 to 42; or     -   (iii) 2-10, 10-15, 15-2E1, 20-50, 50-100 or 100-200 artificial         nucleic acids as defined in items 1 to 42.

Item 66. The vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 65, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single 611         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 39, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GII Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GIII Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, ft 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GIII Noroviruses; or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GIV         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GIV Noroviruses; or     -   (v) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GV         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GV Noroviruses; or     -   (vi) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus and additionally from a single GII Norovirus, GIII         Norovirus, GIV Norovirus and/or GV Norovirus; or     -   (vii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI Noroviruses and additionally         from a single GII, GIII, GIV and/or GV Norovirus or from 2, 3,         4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,         21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36,         37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more         GII, GIII, GIV and/or GV Noroviruses.

Item 67. The vaccine according to any one of items GI to 66, wherein

-   -   (i) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses; or     -   (ii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,         14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,         30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,         46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GII.4 Noroviruses; or     -   (iii) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single         GI.1 Norovirus and additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus;         or     -   (iv) the artificial nucleic acids are derived from a single GI.1         Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,         15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,         31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,         47, 48, 49, 50 or more different GI.1 Noroviruses and         additionally from a single GII.4 Norovirus or from 2, 3, 4, 5,         6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,         23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38,         39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more GII.4         Noroviruses.

Item 68. Kit or kit of parts comprising the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item 60 or the vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 67, optionally comprising a liquid vehicle for solubilising, and optionally technical instructions providing information on administration and dosage of the components.

Item 69. The kit or kit of parts according to item 68 comprising Ringer lactate solution.

Item 70. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item 60, the vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 67, or the kit or kit of parts according to item 68 to 69 for use as a medicament.

Item 71. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item BO, the vaccine according to any one of items GI to 67, or the kit or kit of parts according to item 68 to 69 for use in the treatment or prophylaxis of an infection with Norovirus or a disorder related to an infection with Norovirus.

Item 72. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item 60, the vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 67, or the kit or kit of parts according to item 68 to 69, wherein the artificial nucleic acid, the composition, the vaccine or the active component of the kit or kit of parts is administered by injection, preferably by needle-less injection, more preferably by jet injection.

Item 73. The artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item 60, the vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 67, or the kit or kit of parts according to item 68 to 69 for use according to any one of items 70 to 72, wherein the treatment or prophylaxis comprises the administration of a further active pharmaceutical ingredient.

Item 74. Method of treating or preventing a disorder, wherein the method comprises administering to a subject in need thereof the artificial nucleic acid according to any one of items 1 to 42, the composition according to any one of items 43 to 56, the polypeptide according to any one of items 57 to 59, the composition according to item 60, the vaccine according to any one of items 61 to 67, or the kit or kit of parts according to item 68 to 69.

Item 75. The method according to item 74, wherein the disorder is an infection with Norovirus or a disorder related to an infection with Norovirus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: shows that transfection of HeLa cells with mRNAs coding for Norovirus antigen VP1 leads to the expression of the encoded protein. For cell transfection, mRNA constructs (construct ID R2) and (construct ID R4) were used. Norovirus VP1 proteins were stained intracellularly with a specific anti-Norovirus GII.4 antibody and a FITC labelled secondary antibody and analyzed by FACS. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 2.

FIG. 2: shows that transfection of HeLa cells with mRNAs coding for Norovirus antigen WI leads to the expression of the encoded protein. For cell transfection, mRNA constructs (construct ID R26), (construct ID R27), and (construct ID R28) were used. Norovirus VP1 proteins were stained with a specific anti-Norovirus GII.4 antibody and a FITC labelled secondary antibody and analyzed by FACS. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 2.

FIG. 3: shows that transfection of HeLa cells with mRNAs coding for Norovirus antigen WI leads to protein expression. For cell transfection, mRNA constructs (construct ID R2) and (construct ID R4) were used. Western blot analysis was performed cell lysates of transfected cells. As a control, a commercial VLP preparation (Medigen; 59 kD) was used. Norovirus VP1 proteins were stained with a specific anti-Norovirus GII.4 antibody. M=marker lane: I=mRNA construct R2; 2=mRNA construct R4; 3=WFI control; 4=empty control; 5=commercial VLP control. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 3.

FIG. 4: shows that immunization of mice with formulated Norovirus mRNA vaccine (Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V; construct ID R4; protamine formulated) induced binding IgG1 and IgG2 antibodies, both in a homologous ELISA design (FIG. 4A; coating material VLP GII.4) and in a heterologous ELISA design (FIG. 4B; coating material VLP GII.4 2011). 1=group vaccinated with Norovirus mRNA vaccine; 2=buffer control group. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 4.1.

FIG. 5: shows that immunization of mice with formulated Norovirus mRNA vaccine (Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V; construct ID R4; protamine formulated) induced heterologous blocking antibodies. The results of a Histo-Blood Group Antigen (HBGA) assay in serum dilution 1:12.5 are shown. I=group vaccinated with Norovirus mRNA vaccine; 2=buffer control group. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 4.2.

FIG. 6: shows that immunization of mice with formulated Norovirus mRNA vaccine (Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V; construct ID R4; protamine formulated) induced antigen specific T-cell responses. The results of an ICS assay are shown (CD8+ T-cells). 1=group vaccinated with Norovirus mRNA vaccine; 2=buffer control group. A detailed description of the experiment is provided in the examples section, Example 4.3.

EXAMPLES

The Examples shown in the following are merely illustrative and shall describe the present invention in a further way. These Examples shall not be construed to limit the present invention thereto.

Example 1: Preparation of mRNA for In Vitro and In Vivo Experiments

1.1. Preparation of DNA and mRNA Constructs:

For the present examples, DNA sequences encoding Norovirus antigenic proteins, derived from three or more different Norovirus strains were prepared and used for subsequent RNA in vitro transcription reactions. The prepared RNA constructs (coding sequences (cds) and mRNA sequences) are listed in Table 4 below.

Most DNA sequences were prepared by modifying the wild type encoding DNA sequences by introducing a codon modified sequence or GC-optimized sequence for stabilization, using three or more different in silico algorithms that e.g. increase the GC content of the respective coding sequence (indicated as “GC opt 1”, “GC opt 2”, “GC opt 3”, “GC opt 4”, “opt 5”, “opt 6”, “opt 7” in Table 4; further details relating to sequence modifications are provided in the specifications of the invention). Some DNA sequences were used as a wild type coding sequence, without altering the GC content and without altering the codon usage of the coding sequence (indicated as “wt” in Table 4).

DNA sequences were prepared by modifying the wild type encoding DNA sequences by introducing a GC-optimized sequence for stabilization, using an in silica algorithms that increase the GC content of the respective coding sequence (e.g., indicated as “opt1” in Table 4, see explanation in the paragraph above).

Moreover, sequences were introduced into a pUC19 derived vector and modified to comprise stabilizing sequences derived from alpha-globin-3′-UTR, a stretch of 30 cytosines, a histone-stem-loop structure, and a stretch of 64 adenosines at the 3′-terminal end (poly-A-tail), indicated as “design 1” in Table 4. Other sequences were introduced into a pUC19 derived vector to comprise stabilizing sequences derived from 32L4 5′-UTR ribosomal FOP UTR and 3′-UTR derived from albumin 7, a stretch of 30 cytosines, a histone-stem-loop structure, and a stretch of 64 adenosines at the 3′-terminal end (poly-A-tail), indicated as “design 2” in Table 4. Further details are relating mRNA construct design are provided in the specifications of the invention)

The obtained plasmid DNA constructs were transformed and propagated in bacteria (Escherichia coli) using common protocols known in the art.

TABLE 4 VP1 coding sequences, protein sequences and mRNA constructs Construct RNA ID description Norovirus strain RNA design SEQ ID NO R1 mRNA VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 design 1, wt 39713 R2 mRNA VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 design 2, wt 39714 R3 mRNA VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 design 1, GC opt 1 39715 R4 mRNA VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003; C1N1 design 2, GC opt 1 39716 R5 protein VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 Protein* 2358 R6 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 wild type, wt 6768 R7 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 GC opt 1 39717 R8 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 GC opt 2 11178 R9 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 opt 5 15588 R10 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 opt 6 19998 R11 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 opt 7 24408 R12 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 GC opt 3 28818 R13 cds VP1_(X124V) GII.4-031693-USA-2003 GC opt 4 33228 R14 mRNA Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA design 1 39718 R15 mRNA Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA design 2 39719 R16 mRNA Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA design 1, GC opt 1 39720 R17 mRNA Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA design 2, GC opt 1 39721 R18 protein Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA Protein* 1487 R19 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA wild type 5897 R20 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA GC opt 2 10307 R21 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA opt 5 10307 R22 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA opt 6 19127 R23 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA opt 7 23537 R24 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA GC opt 3 27947 R25 cds Capsidprotein GII.4 Farmington Hills-2002-USA GC opt 4 32357 R26 mRNA VP1 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 design 2, GC opt 1 39729 R27 mRNA VP1 GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 design 2, GC opt 1 39734 R28 mRNA VP1 GII.4-USA-1997 design 2, GC opt 1 39738 R29 mRNA VP1 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein design 2, GC opt 1 39725 *protein sequence is back translated into RNA according to the above paragraph “G/C content modification”

1.2. RNA In Vitro Transcription:

The DNA plasmids prepared according to paragraph 1.1 were enzymatically linearized using EcoRI and transcribed in vitro using DNA dependent T7 RNA polymerase in the presence of a nucleotide mixture and cap analog (m7GpppG) under suitable buffer conditions. The obtained mRNAs were purified using PureMessenger® (CureVac, Tübingen, Germany: WO 2008/077592 A1) and used for in vitro and in vivo experiments.

1.3. Preparation of Protamine Formulated RNA Vaccine:

The obtained mRNA, e.g. HPLC purified RNA, was complexed with protamine by addition of protamine-trehalose solution to RNA solution at a RNA:protamine weight to weight ratio of 2:1. Then, complexed RNA was mixed with non-complexed RNA in a ratio of 50% free RNA and 50% complexed RNA to obtain formulated RNA. Formulated RNA was used for in viva vaccination experiments.

1.4. Preparation of LNP Formulated RNA Vaccine:

RNA is encapsulated in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) using established protocols known in the art. Briefly, LNP-encapsulated RNA is prepared using an ionizable amino lipid (cationic lipid), phospholipid, cholesterol and a PEGylated lipid. Cationic lipid, DSPC, cholesterol and PEG-lipid are solubilized in ethanol. RNA is diluted to a total concentration of about 0.05 mg/mL in 50 mM citrate buffer pH 4. Syringe pumps are used to mix the ethanolic lipid solution with RNA at a ratio of about 1:6 to 1:2 (vol/vol). Ethanol is then removed and the external buffer replaced with PBS by dialysis. Lipid nanoparticles are filtered through a 0.2 μm pore sterile filter. Lipid nanoparticle particle diameter size may be determined by quasi-elastic light scattering using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano (Malvern, UK).

Example 2: Expression of Norovirus VP1 Antigens in HeLa Cells and Analysis by FACS

To determine in vitro protein expression of the inventive Norovirus mRNA constructs, Hela cells were transfected with mRNA constructs encoding Norovirus VP1 antigens and analyzed by intracellular FACS staining. For cell transfection, an mRNA comprising VP1_X124V (GII.4-031693-USA-2003) wild type coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39714; construct ID R2) an mRNA comprising VP1_X124V (GII.4-031693-USA-2003) GC-optimized coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39716; construct ID R4), an mRNA comprising VP1 (GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008) GC-optimized coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39729; construct ID R26), an mRNA comprising VP1 (GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011) GC-optimized coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39734; construct R27) and an mRNA comprising VP1 NOV(GII.4-USA-1997)-Capsidprotein GC-optimized coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39738; construct ID R28) were used. The detailed description of the performed experiment is provided below.

HeLa cells were seeded in a 6-well plate at a density of 400,000 cells/well in cell culture medium (RPMI, 10% FCS, 1% L-Glutamine, 1% Pen/Strep), 24 h prior to transfection. Cells were transfected with 1 μg and 2 μg mRNA per construct using lipofectamine 2000 (Invitrogen) as transfection reagent. As a negative control, water for injection (WFI) was used.

24 hours post transfection, transfected HeLa cells were stained with a commercial mouse anti-Norovirus GII.4 antibody [2000-G5] (Abcam; 1:500) and an anti-mouse FITC labelled secondary antibody (F5262 from Sigma; 1:500) after Cytofix/Cytoperm (BD Biosciences) treatment according to manufacturer's protocol. Subsequently, cells were analyzed by flow cytometry (FACS) on a BD FACS Canto II using the FACS Diva software. Quantitative analysis of the fluorescent FITC signal was performed using the FlowJo software package (Tree Star, Inc.). The results of the FACS expression analysis are shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

Results:

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show that the Norovirus proteins were expressed in Ma cells transfected with the mRNA constructs R2, R4, R26, R27 and R28. Overall, around 80%-90% of transfected cells showed positive FITC signal, indicating that the inventive constructs tested here were able to efficiently drive protein expression without affecting cell viability. Of note, the data suggests that analogous mRNA constructs encoding other Norovirus VP1 or VP2 antigens (as defined in the specifications or listed in Table 1 and Table 3) may also drive protein expression in a similar manner.

Example 3: Analysis of Protein Expression Using Western Blot

To determine in vitro protein expression upon HeLa cell transfection with the inventive mRNA constructs, HeLa cells were transiently transfected with an mRNA constructs comprising VP1_X124V coding sequences. Cell lysates were prepared and analyzed using western blot. The detailed description of the performed experiment is provided below.

HeLa cells are transfected with 2 μg mRNA comprising wild type VP1_X124V coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39714; construct ID R2) and 2 μg mRNA comprising GC-optimized VP1_X124V coding sequence (SEQ ID NO: 39718; construct ID R4). As a negative control water for injection (WFI) was used. After 24 hours post transfection lysis buffer was added to the culture to prepare cellular lysates. Cellular lysates as well as a commercial Norovirus virus like particle (VLP; obtained from Medigen) were reduced by heating the samples to 95° C. for 10 minute. Subsequently, samples were subjected to SDS-PAGE under denaturating/reducing conditions followed by western blot detection. For the detection of Norovirus proteins, a commercial mouse anti-Norovirus GII.4 antibody [2002-85] (1:250; Abcam) was used as primary antibody followed by secondary goat anti mouse antibody coupled to IRDye 800CW (1:10000; Licor Biosciences). The results of the experiment are shown in FIG. 3.

Results:

FIG. 3 shows that the Norovirus proteins were expressed in HeLa cells transfected with the inventive mRNA constructs (SEQ ID NOs: 39714 and 39716). Of note, the data suggests that analogous mRNA constructs encoding other Norovirus antigens (as defined in the specifications or listed in Table 1 and Table 3) may also drive protein expression in a similar manner.

Example 4: Immunization of Mice and Evaluation of Norovirus Specific Immune Responses

Female BALB/c mice were immunized intradermally (i.d.) with protamine formulated mRNA vaccine (construct ID R4) with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 5. As a negative control, one group of mice was injected with buffer (ringer lactate, RiLa). All animals were vaccinated on day 0, 21 and 35. Blood samples were collected on day 49 for the determination of binding antibody titers (using a homologous and heterologous ELISA assay), blocking antibody titers (using a heterologous HGBA assay) and T-cell responses (intracellular cytokine assay). Detailed descriptions of the performed experiments are provided below.

TABLE 5 Vaccination regimen (Example 4) Group No of mice Treatment Dose Route/Volume Vaccination schedule 1 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V 80 μg i.d. d 0, d 21, d 35 SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 2 × 50 μl Protamine formulated 2 6 100% RiLa Control i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 1 × 25 μl

4.1. Determination of Homologous and Heterologous Immune Responses by ELISA:

ELISA was performed using synthetically produced norovirus Virus like particles (VLP) as coating material. For the analysis of homologous immune responses, plates were coated with VLP of the same strain of genotype GII.4 (GII.4 CIN1). For the analysis of heterologous immune responses, plates were coated with VLPs of another strain of genotype GII.4 (GII.4 2011). Coated plates were incubated using respective serum dilutions, and binding of specific antibodies to the Norovirus coating material was detected using biotinylated isotype specific anti-mouse antibodies followed by streptavidin-HRP (horse radish peroxidase) with ABTS as substrate. Endpoint titers of antibodies were measured by ELISA on day 49 after three vaccinations (see Table 5). The results are shown in FIG. 4A (homologous responses) and FIG. 4B (heterologous responses).

4.2. Determination of Blocking Antibody Titers Using a HBGA Blocking Assay:

Respective sera (day 49 after three vaccinations) were pre-incubated with synthetic norovirus VLPs (VLP (GII.4 2011)) and subsequently added to HBGA coated plates. VLP binding to Histo-Blood Group Antigen (HBGA) was detected by norovirus specific antibodies. In the presence of functional blocking antibodies in serum of immunized animals, VLP binding to HBGA was blocked which results in a reduction of the detected antibody signal. The respective blocking index was calculated as commonly known in the art. The results of the assay are shown in FIG. 5.

4.3. Determination of Specific CD8 T-Cell Responses Using ICS:

Splenocytes from vaccinated mice were isolated according to a standard protocol known in the art. Briefly, isolated spleens were grinded through a cell strainer and washed in PBS/1% FBS followed by red blood cell lysis. After an extensive washing step with PBS/1% FBS splenocytes were seeded into 96-well plates (2×10⁶ cells per well). The cells were stimulated with ten Norovirus CD8 peptide epitopes (1 μg/ml of each peptide) in the presence of 2.5 μg/ml of an anti-CD28 antibody (BD Biosciences) and anti-CD107α-PE-Cy7 antibody, after one hour at 37° C. After stimulation, cells were washed and stained and for staining of intracellular cytokines Cytofix/Cytoperm reagent (BD Biosciences) was used according to the manufacturer's instructions. The following antibodies were used for staining: CD3-FITC (1:100), CD8-PE-Cy7 (1:200), TNF-PE (1:100), IFNγ-APC (1:100) (eBioscience), CD4-BD Horizon V450 (1:200) (BD Biosciences) and incubated with Fcγ-block diluted 1:100. Aqua Dye was used to distinguish live/dead cells (Invitrogen). Cells were acquired using a Canto II flow cytometer (Beckton Dickinson). Flow cytometry data was analyzed using FlowJo software package (Tree Star, Inc.). Results for CD8+ T-cells are shown in FIG. 6.

Results:

FIG. 4 shows that the tested Norovirus mRNA vaccine induced Norovirus specific IgG1 and IgG2 antibody titers in immunized mice. Humoral immune response was demonstrated in a homologous ELISA setting (see FIG. 4A) as well as in a heterologous ELISA setting (see FIG. 4B). Of note, the observed heterologous humoral immune response (against another strain of genotype GII.4) is of particular importance for a broad protection against Norovirus infections, as GII.4 strains are fast-evolving which is challenging in successful Norovirus vaccine development.

FIG. 5 shows that the tested Norovirus mRNA vaccine induced Norovirus specific blocking antibody titers in immunized mice in a homologous and heterologous HGBA assay setup, showing that also functional antibodies were induced after immunization of mice with the inventive Norovirus mRNA vaccine. Of note, the induction of functional blocking antibodies also against another strain of genotype GII.4 demonstrates that the used mRNA Norovirus vaccine may also confer broad protection against different Norovirus strains of genotype GII.4.

FIG. 6 shows that the tested Norovirus mRNA vaccine stimulated a robust CD8+ IFN-γ/TNF-α and CD8+CD107a/IFN-γ in spleen of immunized mice.

Overall, the results of the immunization experiments in mice show that the inventive Norovirus mRNA vaccine induced a broad immune response engaging both the humoral-secretory and cellular immunity effector arms. Notably, heterologous immune responses were also observed (ELISA, HGBA). The data suggests that analogous mRNA constructs encoding other Norovirus antigens (as defined in the specifications or listed in Table 1 or Table 3) may also induce board immune responses in a similar manner.

Example 5: Immunization of Mice and Further Evaluation of Heterologous Immune Responses

Female BALB/c mice are immunized intradermally (i.d.) and intramuscularily (i.m.) with protamine formulated or LNP formulated mRNA vaccines with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 6. As a negative control, one group of mice was injected with buffer (ringer lactate). All animals were vaccinated on day 0, 21 and 35. Blood samples are collected on day 49 for the determination of binding antibody titers (using a homologous and heterologous ELISA assay), blocking antibody titers (using a homologous and heterologous HGBA assay). Detailed descriptions of the performed experiments are provided below.

TABLE 6 Vaccination regimen of mice (Example 5) Group No. of mice Treatment Dose Route/Volume Vaccination schedule 1 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 80 μg i.d. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-USA-1997 2 × 50 μl SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 Protamine formulated 2 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 80 μg i.d. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 2 × 50 μl SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 Protamine formulated 3 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 80 μg i.d. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 50 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 Protamine formulated 4 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V 80 μg i.d. d 0, d 21, d 35 SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 2 × 50 μl Protamine formulated 5 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 20 μg i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-USA-1997 2 × 25 μl SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 LNP formulated 6 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 20 μg i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 2 × 25 μl SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 LNP formulated 7 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1 20 μg i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 25 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 LNP formulated 8 6 Norovirus GC-optimized VP1_X124V 20 μg i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 2 × 25 μl LNP formulated 9 6 100% RiLa Control i.m. d 0, d 21, d 35 1 × 25 μl

5.1. Determination of Homologous and Heterologous Immune Responses by ELISA:

ELISA is performed essentially as described in Example 4.1. Plates are coated with VLP 011.4 CIN1 and VLP GII.4 2011 to determine homologous and heterologous immune responses.

5.2. Determination of Blocking Antibody Titers Using a Heterologous HBGA Blocking Assay:

The HGBA assay is performed essentially as described in Example 4.2. The respective blocking index are calculated as commonly known in the art to evaluate homologous and heterologous cross neutralizing capacities of the used mRNA vaccines.

5.3. Determination of Specific CD8 T-Cell Responses Using ICS:

Multifunctional CD8 T-cell responses are analyzed as described in Example 4.3.

Example 6: Norovirus mRNA Vaccine Challenge Study in Gnotobiotic Pigs

6.1 Immunization of Gnotobiotic Pigs:

Gnotobiotic pigs are derived by hysterectomy from near-term sows and maintained in germ-free isolator units. Pigs are fed commercial ultra-high-temperature-treated sterile food. All pigs are confirmed as seronegative for Norovirus and germ-free prior to immunization experiments. Gnotobiotic pigs are immunized with protamine formulated or LNP formulated mRNA vaccines (monovalent, bivalent, or tetravalent) with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 7. Analysis of immune responses is performed essentially as described in Example 4 (ELISA, HGBA, and ICS).

TABLE 7 Vaccination regimen of pigs (Example B) Group No. of pigs Treatment Dose/Route Vaccination schedule 1 6 Monovalent vaccine: protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 i.d. SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 2 × 200 μl 2 6 Bivalent vaccine: protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (total) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.d. GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 200 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 3 6 Tetravalent vaccine; protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-USA-1997 (total) SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + i.d. GII.4-031693-USA-2003 2 × 200 μl SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729: R26 + GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 4 6 Monovalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 i.m. SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 2 × 100 μl 5 6 Bivalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (total) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.m. GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 100 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 6 6 Tetravalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-USA-1997 (total) SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + i.m. GII.4-031693-USA-2003 2 × 100 μl SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 + GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 7 6 100% RiLa Control — d 0, d 21

6.2. Norovirus Challenge Experiment:

At day 3D days post immunization, the vaccinated and buffer-injected control pigs are challenged orally with Norovirus GII.4 (isolated from human stool samples) to assess the protection against Norovirus-induced diarrhea and fecal virus shedding. After virus challenge, rectal swaps and feces samples are collected at day 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10. Norovirus loads in rectal swaps and feces samples are determined using quantitative PER. In addition, pigs are monitored for Norovirus-associated symptoms and fecal consistence scores are recorded to assess severity of the Norovirus infection.

Example 7: Immunization of Non-Human Primates and Evaluation of Immune Responses

Non-human primates (NHPs) are immunized with protamine or LNP formulated mRNA vaccines with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 8. Analysis of immune responses is performed essentially as described in Example 4 (ELISA, HGBA, and ICS).

TABLE 8 Vaccination regimen of NHPs (Example 7) Group Number of NHPs Treatment Dose/Route Vaccination schedule 1 6 Monovalent vaccine protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 i.d. SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 2 × 200 μl 2 6 Bivalent vaccine: protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (total) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.d. GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 200 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 3 6 Tetravalent vaccine: protamine formulated 240 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-USA-1997 (total) SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + i.d. GII.4-031693-USA-2003 2 × 200 μl SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 + GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 4 6 Monovalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 i.m. SEQ ID NO: 39729: R26 2 × 100 μl 5 6 Bivalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (total) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.m. GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 2 × 100 μl SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 6 6 Tetravalent vaccine: LNP formulated 60 μg d 0, d 21 GII.4-USA-1997 (total) SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + i.m. GII.4-031693-USA-2003 2 × 100 μl SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 + GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 7 6 100% RiLa Control i.m. d 0, d 21 1 × 100 μl

Example 8: Development of a Multivalent Norovirus mRNA Vaccine

8.1. Generation of Bivalent, Tetravalent and Multivalent Norovirus mRNA Vaccines

For bivalent and tetravalent Norovirus mRNA vaccines, each mRNA construct is individually produced (as described in Example 1).

Multivalent Norovirus vaccine compositions are produced according to procedures as disclosed in the PCT application PCT/EP2016/082487. In short, Norovirus DNA constructs (each of which comprising different norovirus coding sequences and a T7 promotor; e.g. synthetic DNA templates immobilized on a chip) are used as a matrix for simultaneous PER amplification. The obtained PER product mixture is purified and used as a template for simultaneous RNA in vitro transcription to generate a mixture of Norovirus mRNA constructs. The obtained Norovirus mRNA mixture is subjected to quantitative and qualitative measurements (e.g., RNA AGE, RT-qPCR, NGS, and Spectrometry). Following that, purification and formulation is performed (protamine formulation and LNP formulation). For the preparation of multivalent mRNA mixtures, Norovirus sequences as provided in Table 3 (see specifications) are used.

The produced bivalent, tetravalent and multivalent Norovirus mRNA vaccines are used for in vitro and in vivo experiments.

8.2. Expression Analysis of Multivalent Norovirus mRNA Vaccines Using Quantitative Mass Spectrometry

Hela cells are transfected with bivalent, tetravalent and multivalent mRNA mixtures (see Table 9) and protein expression is analyzed using quantitative mass spectrometry to show that every mRNA comprised in the respective mRNA mixture is efficiently translated into Norovirus protein/antigen.

8.3. Immunization of Mice and Evaluation of Norovirus Specific Immune Responses

Female BALB/c mice are with protamine or LNP formulated monovalent, bivalent, tetravalent or multivalent mRNA vaccines with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 9. As a negative control, one group of mice is injected with buffer (ringer lactate, Rile). All animals are vaccinated on day 0, 21 and 35. Blood samples are collected on day 49 for the Ill determination of binding antibody titers (using an ELISA assay), blocking antibody titers (using a HGBA assay) and cellular immune responses (ICS) performed essentially as described in Example 4.

TABLE 9 Vaccination regimen of mice (Example 8) Group Number of mice Treatment Dose/Route Vaccination schedule 1 6 Monovalent vaccine: Protamine formulated 40 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-D31693-USA-2003 i.d. SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 2 6 Bivalent vaccine: Protamine formulated 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 R4 or R26 or R27 or R28 + (40 μg each) R4 or R26 or R27 or R28 i.d. 3 6 Tetravalent vaccine; Protamine formulated 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 GII.4-USA-1997 (20 μg each) SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + i.d. GII.4-031693-USA-2003 SEQ ID NO: 397I6; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 + GII.4-GZ2010-L87-Guangzhou-2011 SEQ ID NO: 39734; R27 4 6 Bivalent vaccine; Protamine formulated 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (40 μg each) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.d. R4 or R26 or R27 or R28 5 6 Tetravalent vaccine: Protamine formulated 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 GI.1-USA-1968-Capsidprotein (20 μg each) SEQ ID NO: 39725; R29 + i.d. GII.4-USA-1997 SEQ ID NO: 39738; R28 + GII.4-031693-USA-2003 SEQ ID NO: 39716; R4 + GII.4-2006b 092895-USA-2008 SEQ ID NO: 39729; R26 6 6 Multivalent: Protamine formulated. 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 20 constructs encoding Norovirus antigens of (total) several genogroups, genotypes and strains i.d. (selected from Table 3). 7 6 Multivalent: Protamine formulated. 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 50 constructs encoding Norovirus antigens of (total) several genogroups, genotypes and strains i.d. (selected from Table 3). 8 6 Multivalent: LNP formulated. 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 20 constructs encoding Norovirus antigens of (total) several genogroups. genotypes and strains i.m. (selected from Table 3). 9 6 Multivalent: LNP formulated. 80 μg d 0, d 21, d 35 50 constructs encoding Norovirus antigens of (total) several genogroups, genotypes and strains i.m. (selected from Table 3). 10 6 100% RiLa Control — d 0, d 21, d 35

Example 9: Expression of Norovirus Proteins in HeLa Cells and Analysis by FACS

To determine in vitro protein expression of the constructs, HeLa cells are transiently transfected with mRNA encoding Norovirus antigens and stained using suitable customized anti Norovirus-protein antibodies (raised in mouse) and a FITC-coupled secondary antibody (F5262 from Sigma).

Hela cells are seeded in a 6-well plate at a density of 400000 cells/well in cell culture medium (RPMI, 10% FCS, 1% L-Glutamine, 1% Pen/Strep), 24 h prior to transfection. Hela cells are transfected with 1 and 2 μg unformulated mRNA using Lipofectamine 2000 (Invitrogen). The mRNA constructs are used in the experiment, including a negative control encoding an irrelevant protein. 24 hours post transfection. Hela cells are stained with suitable anti Norovirus-protein antibodies (raised in mouse; 1:500) and anti-mouse FITC labelled secondary antibody (1:500) and subsequently analyzed by flow cytometry (FACS) on a BD FACS Canto II using the FACS Diva software. Quantitative analysis of the fluorescent FITC signal is performed using the FlowJo software package (Tree Star, Inc.).

Example 10: Expression and Secretion of Norovirus Proteins Using Western Blot

For the analysis of Norovirus protein secretion, Hela cells are transfected with 1 μg and 2 μg unformulated mRNA (R1-R29, see Table 4) including a negative control encoding an irrelevant protein using Lipofectamine as the transfection agent. Supernatants, harvested 24 hours post transfection, are filtered through a 0.2 μm filter. Clarified supernatants are applied on top of 1 ml 20% sucrose cushion (in PBS) and centrifuged at 14000 rcf (relative centrifugal force) for 2 hours at 4° C. Horn virus protein content is analyzed by Western Blot suitable customized anti Norovirus-protein antibodies (raised in mouse; 1:500 diluted) as primary antibody in combination with secondary anti mouse antibody coupled to IRDye 800CW (Licor Biosciences). The presence of αβ-tubulin is also analyzed as control for cellular contamination (αβ-tubulin: Cell Signalling Technology; 1:1000 diluted) in combination with secondary anti rabbit antibody coupled to IRDye 680RD (Licor Biosciences).

For the analysis of Norovirus proteins in cell lysates, Hale cells are transfected with 1 μg and 2 μg unformulated mRNAs (R1-R29, see Table 4) including a negative control encoding an irrelevant protein using Lipofectamine as the transfection agent 24 hours post transfection, Held cells are detached by trypsin-free/EDTA buffer, harvested, and cell lysates are prepared. Cell lysates are subjected to SOS-PAGE under non-denaturating/non-reducting followed by western blot detection. Western Blot analysis is performed using a suitable customized anti Norovirus-protein antibodies antibody (raised in mouse; 1:500 diluted) as primary antibody in combination with secondary anti mouse antibody coupled to IRDye 800CW (Licor Biosciences).

Example 11: Preparation of Norovirus Vaccine Compositions

For in vivo vaccination experiments, different compositions of Norovirus mRNA vaccine are prepared using Norovirus mRNA constructs (see Table 4). One composition comprises protamine-complexed mRNA, one composition comprises mRNA that is formulated with an aluminum phosphate adjuvant.

11.1. Preparation of Protamine Complexed mRNA (“Vaccine Composition 1”; RNActive®):

Norovirus mRNA constructs are complexed with protamine prior to use in in vivo vaccination experiments. The mRNA complexation consists of a mixture of 50% free mRNA and 50% mRNA complexed with protamine at a weight ratio of 2:1. First, mRNA is complexed with protamine by addition of protamine-Ringer's lactate solution to mRNA. After incubation for 10 minutes, when the complexes are stably generated, free mRNA is added, and the final concentration of the vaccine is adjusted with Ringer's lactate solution.

11.2. Preparation of mRNA with Alum Phosphate (“Vaccine Composition 2”):

mRNA constructs are mixed with the desired amount of aluminum phosphate adjuvant in Ringer's lactate solution (“naked mRNA”).

Example 12: Vaccination of Mice and Evaluation of Norovirus Specific Immune Response

12.1. Immunization

Female BALB/c mice are injected intradermally (i.d.) and intramuscularly (i.m.) with respective mRNA vaccine compositions (prepared according to Example 11) with doses, application routes and vaccination schedules as indicated in Table 10. As a negative control, one group of mice is vaccinated with buffer (ringer lactate). All animals are vaccinated on day 1, 21 and 35. Blood samples are collected on day 21, 35, and 63 for the determination of binding and neutralizing antibody titers (see below).

TABLE 10 Vaccination regimen (Example 12) Number Route/ Vaccination Group of mice Vaccine composition Volume Schedule (day) 1 10 80 μg Norovirus i.d. 0/21/35 RNActive ® 2 × 50 μl Composition 1 2 10 40 μg Norovirus i.d. 0/21/35 RNActive ® 2 × 50 μl Composition 1 3 10 20 μg Norovirus i.d. 0/21/35 RNActive ® 2 × 50 μl Composition 1 4 10 40 μg Norovirus i.m. 0/21/35 naked RNA 2 × 25 μl Composition 2 5 10 40 μg Norovirus i.m. 0/21/35 naked RNA 2 × 25 μl Composition 2 6 10 40 μg Norovirus i.m. 0/21/35 naked RNA 2 × 25 μl Composition 2 7 10 100% RiLa Control i.d. 0/21/35 2 × 50 μl

12.2. Determination of Anti-Norovirus Protein Antibodies by ELISA:

ELISA is performed using inactivated Norovirus infected cell lysate for coating. Coated plates are incubated using respective serum dilutions, and binding of specific antibodies to the Norovirus antigens are detected using biotinylated isotype specific anti-mouse antibodies followed by streptavidin-HRP (horse radish peroxidase) with ABTS as substrate. Endpoint titers of antibodies directed against the Norovirus antigens are measured by ELISA on day 63 after three vaccinations.

12.3. Intracellular Cytokine Staining

Splenocytes from vaccinated mice are isolated according to a standard protocol known in the art. Briefly, isolated spleens are grinded through a cell strainer and washed in PBS/1% FBS followed by red blood cell lysis. After an extensive washing step with PBS/1% FBS splenocytes are seeded into 96-well plates (2×10⁶ cells per well). The cells are stimulated with a mixture of four Norovirus protein specific peptide epitopes (5 μg/ml of each peptide) in the presence of 2.5 μg/ml of an anti-CD28 antibody (BD Biosciences) for 6 hours at 37° C. in the presence of a protein transport inhibitor. After stimulation, cells are washed and stained for intracellular cytokines using the Cytofix/Cytoperm reagent (BD Biosciences) according to the manufacturer's instructions. The following antibodies are used for staining: CD3-FITC (1:100), CD8-PE-Cy7 (1:200), TNF-PE (1:100), IFNγ-APC (1:100) (eBioscience), CD4-BD Horizon V450 (1:200) (BD Biosciences) and incubated with Fcγ-block diluted 1:100. Aqua Dye is used to distinguish live/dead cells (Invitrogen). Cells are acquired using a Canto II flow cytometer (Beckton Dickinson). Flow cytometry data is analyzed using FlowJo software package (Tree Star, Inc.)

12.4. Norovirus Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test (PRNT50)

Sera are analyzed by a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT50), performed as commonly known in the art. Briefly, obtained serum samples of vaccinated mice are incubated with Norovirus. That mixture is used to infect cultured cells, and the reduction in the number of plaques is determined.

Example 13: Clinical Development of a Norovirus mRNA Vaccine Composition

To demonstrate safety and efficiency of the NoraviromRNA vaccine composition, a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (phase I) is initiated.

For clinical development, GMP-grade RNA is produced using an established GMP process, implementing various quality controls on DNA level and RNA level as described in detail in WO 2016/180430A1.

In the clinical trial, a cohort of human volunteers is intradermally or intramuscularly injected for at least two times with a monovalent, or a bivalent, or a tetravalent or a multivalent mRNA based Norovirus vaccine as specified herein.

In order to assess the safety profile of the Norovirus vaccine compositions according to the invention, subjects are monitored after administration (vital signs, vaccination site tolerability assessments, hematologic analysis).

The efficacy of the immunization is analysed by determination of virus neutralizing titers (VNT) or HBGA blocking titers in sera from vaccinated subjects. Blood samples are collected on day 0 as baseline and after completed vaccination. Sera are analyzed for virus neutralizing antibodies or HBGA blocking antibodies.

Furthermore, a subset of subjects is challenged with live GI.1 Norwalk virus or placebo by oral administration. Subjects are followed post-challenge for symptoms of Norovirus associated illness, infection and immune responses. There are multiple clinical assessments and collection of blood, emesis, saliva, and stool specimens.

Lengthy table referenced here US11141474-20211012-T00001 Please refer to the end of the specification for access instructions.

LENGTHY TABLES The patent contains a lengthy table section. A copy of the table is available in electronic form from the USPTO web site (https://seqdata.uspto.gov/?pageRequest=docDetail&DocID=US11141474B2). An electronic copy of the table will also be available from the USPTO upon request and payment of the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19(b)(3). 

The invention claimed is:
 1. Artificial nucleic acid molecule comprising at least one coding region encoding a Norovirus VP1 polypeptide, said coding region having at least 90% identity to a sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39746, wherein the artificial nucleic acid molecule comprises at least one heterologous 5′ and/or 3′ untranslated region (UTR).
 2. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is monocistronic, bicistronic or multicistronic.
 3. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the artificial nucleic acid is an mRNA.
 4. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 3, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises a 5′-cap structure.
 5. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the G/C content of the coding region of the mRNA sequence is increased compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the C content of the coding region of the mRNA sequence is increased compared to the C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type mRNA, or wherein the codon usage in the coding region of the mRNA sequence is adapted to the human codon usage, or wherein the codon adaptation index (CAI) is increased or maximised in the coding region of the mRNA sequence, wherein the encoded amino acid sequence of the mRNA sequence is preferably not being modified compared to the encoded amino acid sequence of the wild type mRNA.
 6. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the artificial nucleic acid comprises at least one histone stem-loop.
 7. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the 3′-UTR comprises at least one heterologous 3′-UTR element.
 8. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the 3′-UTR comprises a poly(A) sequence and/or a poly(C) sequence.
 9. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the 5′-UTR comprises at least one heterologous 5′-UTR element.
 10. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, comprising the following elements: a) optionally a 5′-cap structure, b) the at least one coding region, c) a poly(A) tail comprising 10 to 200 adenosine nucleotides, d) optionally a poly(C) tail comprising 10 to 200 cytosine nucleotides, and e) optionally a histone stem-loop.
 11. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 10, comprising a 3′-UTR element comprising a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from an α-globin gene.
 12. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 said coding region having at least 95% identity to a sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 39713-39746.
 13. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 10, comprising a 5′-UTR element, which comprises or consists of a nucleic acid sequence, which is derived from the 5′-UTR of a TOP gene.
 14. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, wherein the coding region comprises a chemically modified nucleotide.
 15. A method of treating or preventing a Norovirus infection, wherein the method comprises administering to a subject in need thereof the artificial nucleic acid according to claim
 1. 16. The artificial nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, said coding region having at least 90% identity to a sequence of SEQ ID NOs:
 39743. 